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ROBLOX is now starting to implement a mandatory age-verification system for all users worldwide.
If players of the popular game do not comply, they will be restricted from essential features until their age is verified.
Roblox is among the most popular games globally, boasting hundreds of millions of active playersCredit: Roblox
Face-scanning technology will estimate player ages to enhance chat safetyCredit: Roblox
The new measures are designed to safeguard children from exposure to inappropriate conversations.
Roblox’s age checks will categorize players into different age groups, restricting who they can communicate with online.
If a player fails to verify their age, they will be unable to chat with other users.
“Our commitment to safety is anchored in providing the highest level of protection for our users,” stated Matt Kaufman, Roblox’s safety chief.
“By implementing proactive, age-based barriers, we can enable users to create and connect in ways that are both safe and suitable.”
The checks will become compulsory in the US today and will be rolled out globally “over the next week.”
This will make Roblox the first major online platform to mandate age verification for chatting across its entire user base.
Roblox is one of the most popular platforms worldwide, with over 380 million players logging in each month.
HOW THE AGE CHECKS WORK
To facilitate the age checks, Roblox has partnered with a reputable third-party company named Persona.
Players will participate in Persona’s Facial Age Estimation process, which utilizes the smartphone camera to capture images and videos.
This process will authenticate the player’s age group and subsequently delete the captured images.
If you are aged 13 or older, you can also verify your age using an ID.
The age-checks themselves are optional, but they are required to access the chat features.
“Proactive tools like age estimation are essential for fostering a safer and more positive digital environment for children and teenagers,” remarked Stephen Balkam, chief of the Family Online Safety Institute.
You’ll only be able to chat with users close to your own ageCredit: Roblox
“Roblox’s risk-based approach to features like voice chat sets a commendable example of responsible innovation.”
Age Brackets
There are six age brackets, as follows:
- Under 9
- 9 – 12
- 13 – 15
- 16 – 17
- 18 – 20
- 21+
You will be able to chat with users in the groups directly above or below your assigned bracket.
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However, if you belong to the under 9 group, chat will be disabled by default unless a parent grants consent after an age check.
If you believe you have been assigned to the incorrect age bracket, you can appeal through Roblox customer support.
This will allow you to use alternative verification methods, including a formal process.
Roblox will also “continuously evaluate” user behavior to identify if someone is “significantly older or younger than expected.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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