Roblox Implements Age Verification for Indian Users to Access Chat Features
Online gaming platform Roblox has launched a mandatory age verification system for users in India. This move enables chat functionality on the platform. Roblox now stands as the first large online gaming company to require age checks for all users, regardless of their age, to use chat features.
Global Rollout and Adoption
The company first introduced this age verification feature for chat access in December last year. Initial implementation occurred in Australia, New Zealand, and the Netherlands. According to Roblox, over fifty percent of daily active users in these three countries have already completed the age verification process.
Roblox has begun a phased rollout of this feature across several nations. The United States of America, Australia, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Brazil, Korea, Japan, Indonesia, and India are all part of this expansion.
Company Statement on Safety
Matt Kaufman, Chief Safety Officer at Roblox, announced the new feature. He emphasized the company's commitment to user safety. "Our commitment to safety is rooted in delivering the highest level of protection for our users," Kaufman stated. "By building proactive, age-based barriers, we can empower users to create and connect in ways that are both safe and appropriate."
How Age Verification Works for Users
Once users complete the age check, Roblox assigns them to one of six specific age groups:
- Under 9 years old
- 9 to 12 years old
- 13 to 15 years old
- 16 to 17 years old
- 18 to 20 years old
- 21 years and above
By default, users in each age group can chat with users in their own group. They can also communicate with users in the groups directly above and below theirs. For example, users aged 9 to 12 can chat with those in their own group, as well as with users under 9 and those aged 13 to 15.
Roblox has implemented specific protections for younger children. Chat features remain turned off by default for children under the age of 9. Parents must provide explicit consent after the age verification process to enable chat for these young users.
Parental Control Tools
Roblox provides parents with robust tools to monitor and manage their child's gaming experience. The platform's parental controls offer several key functions:
- Parents can review their child's age-check status.
- They can update a child's birthday information if needed.
- Additional settings help customize the gaming environment.
Additionally, parents can access Roblox's dedicated Safety Center. This resource provides clear guides and practical tools for parents and caregivers. It helps them make informed decisions about their child's online activities. The Safety Center also assists in setting up parental controls effectively. It offers support for managing a child's overall online experience on the platform.
The introduction of age verification represents a significant step in online safety for gaming platforms. Roblox's approach combines technological barriers with parental oversight tools. This dual strategy aims to create a safer digital environment for young gamers across India and other participating countries.
