Roblox defends expanded age‑checks after parents raise concerns over errors

8 hours ago

Roblox is expanding its age-specific accounts (Roblox Kids and Roblox Select) based on age estimation, despite parent concerns over misclassification errors that can reduce parental controls.
The company's age-estimation system uses facial analysis and claims accuracy within about 1.4 years for users under 18, but data on misclassification rates hasn't been published.
New account types restrict features: Roblox Kids has no communication and curated games, while Roblox Select offers limited communication and restricted content for ages 9-15.
Parents report difficulties correcting age-check errors, though Roblox allows resets, appeals, or ID verification, and suggests some issues stem from parents completing checks for children.
Experts like Prof Sonia Livingstone acknowledge Roblox's efforts but warn of ongoing risks, such as adult content and contact, calling for independent verification of safety measures.
The changes occur amid global regulatory pressure, including the UK's Online Safety Act, with Roblox citing its scale and scrutiny as driving enhanced protections.

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