Roblox CEO Tells Parents to Keep Kids Off Platform if Concerned
Roblox CEO Dave Baszucki has advised parents who are worried about their children using the platform to simply not allow them access.
The gaming platform, popular among children aged 8 to 12 in the UK, has faced criticism over claims that some young users have been exposed to explicit content, bullying, and grooming.
Baszucki defended the company's safety measures, stating that "tens of millions" of users have positive experiences on the platform. He emphasised that parents should make their own decisions regarding their children's access.
"If you're not comfortable, don't let your kids be on Roblox," Baszucki told BBC News.
Mumsnet CEO Justine Roberts acknowledged that while parental controls exist, constant supervision is challenging. She noted that parents often struggle to manage their children's use of the platform.
Ellie Gibson, co-host of the Scummy Mummies podcast, suggested Baszucki's statement might be unrealistic, as many children feel pressured to play because their friends are on the platform.
Roblox's Safety Measures
Roblox, which averaged more than 80 million daily players in 2024, has implemented various safety tools. The company monitors bullying, harassment, and inappropriate content, using AI to analyse communications.
Players who violate community guidelines can face temporary suspensions or permanent bans. In November last year, Roblox banned direct messaging for users under 13 and restricted access to certain chat-based experiences.
Despite these measures, a BBC investigation found that safety filters could be bypassed. Reporters created fake accounts and were able to exchange messages between a 15-year-old and a 27-year-old account. While some attempts to move conversations to other platforms were blocked, alternative wording allowed users to evade detection.
Baszucki argued that this demonstrated Roblox's relative safety, as users had to take rule-breaking behaviour elsewhere. He stated that the company is committed to going beyond legal requirements to protect users.
Concerns Over Game Recommendations
The BBC also found that Roblox recommended certain games to an 11-year-old user, including "Late Night Boys And Girls Club RP," "Special Forces Simulator," "Squid Game," and "Shoot Down Planes…Because Why Not?"
Baszucki defended the platform's age rating system, stating that Roblox evaluates content beyond just game titles. He insisted that the company follows strict guidelines to ensure appropriate recommendations.
The Growth of Roblox
Founded in 2004 by Baszucki and Eric Cassel, Roblox launched in 2006.
The introduction of its digital currency, Robux, in 2007 significantly boosted its revenue. Players use Robux to purchase in-game items, with content creators receiving 70% of the earnings.
Roblox is now valued at USD 41 billion, with its share price increasing by about one-third over the past six months. The company aims to attract 10% of the world's gamers and expand into a Metaverse-style virtual world.
Baszucki described Roblox as "the future of communication" and compared its development to Walt Disney's creation of the Magic Kingdom.
Roblox CEO Dave Baszucki advised parents to keep children off the platform if they are concerned.
The platform has faced criticism over exposure to explicit content, bullying, and grooming.
Roblox has implemented safety measures, but a BBC investigation found ways to bypass filters.
Source: BBC