Los Angeles County Files Lawsuit Against Roblox Over Child Safety Concerns
ISTANBUL – Officials in Los Angeles, California have filed a lawsuit against Roblox, accusing the platform of exposing children to sexual content, exploitation, and online predators.
In a statement released on Thursday, the County of Los Angeles said it had taken legal action against the gaming company. Officials argue that although Roblox promotes itself as a safe and creative digital platform, it has become an unsafe space where predators target minors.
Allegations of Inadequate Safeguards
According to the complaint, children in Los Angeles County have repeatedly encountered sexually explicit material, grooming, and exploitation while using the platform. County officials claim the company prioritized profit over child protection.
Furthermore, the lawsuit states that Roblox failed to introduce effective moderation tools and reliable age verification systems, despite publicly assuring families that the platform is safe for young users.
County Counsel Dawyn R. Harrison filed the case on behalf of the people of California. Harrison described the issue as serious and ongoing. She said the company allegedly provides individuals with harmful intentions the tools to target vulnerable children, which can lead to severe emotional trauma and abuse.
Company Response and Global Scrutiny
Roblox reports that it has 144 million daily active users worldwide, with more than 40% under the age of 13. In response to growing criticism, the company has introduced age-based content controls, messaging limits, and selfie-based age verification for millions of young users.
However, authorities in several countries—including Australia, New Zealand, Netherlands, Belgium, Türkiye, and Malaysia—have also reviewed or restricted the platform due to child safety concerns.
As legal proceedings move forward, the case could intensify the broader debate over online safety standards for platforms used by minors.
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