Home / Technology / Australia Presses Roblox on Child Safety Concerns
Australia Presses Roblox on Child Safety Concerns
10 Feb
Summary
- Australian government summoned Roblox executives to explain grooming reports.
- Communications Minister Anika Wells is demanding accountability from Roblox.
- eSafety Commissioner will test Roblox's compliance with safety commitments.
The Australian government has escalated its demands on Roblox Corp., summoning company executives to address alarming reports of child grooming on the gaming service. Communications Minister Anika Wells asserted that Roblox must provide an account of these allegations as a primary step.
In parallel, the eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, is exploring further regulatory actions to prevent exploitation of children. Roblox has stated that it employs advanced safeguards to monitor for harmful content and communications, affirming a continuous commitment to user safety.
This government pressure could lead to new regulations for Roblox, which is under international observation regarding online safety for minors. While some parents have called for an age ban on Roblox, the minister noted that gaming platforms, currently exempt from social media legislation, require a distinct regulatory approach.
The eSafety Commissioner's office will specifically examine Roblox's adherence to nine safety commitments made last year, including implementing tools to prevent adults from contacting underage users without parental consent. Penalties of up to A$49.5 million ($35 million) are possible for breaches.
