Digital gamesIs Roblox safe for children?
How does Roblox work?
After the simple registration at Roblox (only user name and password are necessary), you can choose between two game variants. Either you build your own games in the "Roblox Studio" or you use games created by other users.
Graphically, the entire Roblox universe is kept quite simple. The design of the characters is reminiscent of Lego figures. However, creating games in Roblox Studio is complex and requires training. Finished games can be played relatively without hurdles, as they usually rely on familiar game principles. According to Roblox, users can currently choose from over 50 million games.
Is Roblox suitable for children?
Roblox is deliberately designed for children. However, there are some mechanics and content that are not suitable for children.
- There is no age restriction in Roblox. According to the terms of use, all persons under the age of 18 must have parental consent for account creation. Whether the parental consent is actually present, is not checked during registration.
- Roblox offers a lot of games created by other players. This content is only insufficiently checked. Therefore, it is easy to come across content that is disturbing, racist, violent or otherwise harmful to minors.
- The default settings after logging in to Roblox are unsafe for children and allow strangers to contact them via the chat function.
- Roblox is free of charge in its basic functions. However, there is an in-game currency called Robux. These Robux must be purchased with real money. Almost all games encourage - sometimes more, sometimes less aggressively - to spend Robux.
How to use Roblox more securely?
- If parents create an account together with their child, they can activate an account restriction in the settings under the menu item "Privacy". If the account restriction is active, only games checked by Roblox and recommended for each age can be started. In addition, the chat function is deactivated. With account restriction enabled, only a very small number of games are available. This setting has no influence on direct purchase prompts.
- An account PIN can be created in the settings under the menu item "Security". This prevents the child from undoing the account restriction. To set up an account PIN, parents must first link their email address to the account.
- Discuss with children that they should not reveal any personal details about themselves. Neither in chat conversations nor in self-promotion on their profile.
- Teach children that the goal of many games is to encourage players to buy additional content. The use of the fantasy currency Robux, which has to be bought for real money, can make it difficult for children to estimate the real costs.
- In many games, you'll come across offers that promise you Robux. Make children aware that these offers are scams and should never be accepted.