Roblox møter kritikk og juridiske utfordringer angående etiketten og sikkerhetspolicyene for «sensitive problemer»

Roblox is confronting increasing scrutiny over its latest content moderation measures and safety policies. The platform's newly introduced 'sensitive issues' label has sparked a backlash from advocacy groups, which claim it undermines creative expression and social justice. The label, launched in August 2025, is intended to help parents identify content that involves social, political, or religious themes.

Organizations such as Women In Games, Out Making Games, and BAME in Games have voiced their concerns through an open letter, warning that the label treats fundamental human rights as debatable rather than essential. "Roblox's recently proposed creator guidelines regarding 'sensitive issues' represent a step backward for both creative expression and social justice," the letter reads. The groups emphasize that issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and racial justice are crucial for representation and education, and marking these as 'sensitive' risks hiding content that is vital for young players.

The controversy comes as Roblox faces legal pressure from YouTubers and legal experts. Law By Mike, a practicing attorney and YouTuber, announced intentions to take legal action against Roblox, accusing the platform of failing to adequately protect children. The lawsuit argues that Roblox has not implemented sufficient measures to prevent exploitation and unsafe interactions, raising questions about the effectiveness of the platform's safety framework.

Additionally, Roblox bans predator-hunting YouTuber Schlep, who had produced videos that led to multiple arrests for online predators. Roblox cited violations of its rules against vigilante actions, while Schlep argued that he was being punished for exposing safety issues. The ban has cut off his primary content source and revenue stream, generating significant online discussion and support for his actions under the hashtag #FreeSchlep.

Roblox has responded to these concerns by announcing a series of new safety features. Among the most notable is an AI-driven Age Estimation system, designed to verify the ages of teenagers through video selfies. The system aims to restrict access to certain features for underage users and is a prerequisite for the platform's Trusted Connections feature. This feature allows users aged 13 and older to specify trusted contacts, facilitating safer communication while maintaining proactive monitoring of conversations.

The platform has also introduced additional privacy and well-being tools, including online status controls, a do-not-disturb mode, and insights into screen time. Parental controls have been expanded to allow visibility into teen users’ activities, spending, and Trusted Connections. Roblox emphasizes that these measures are part of a broader commitment to building a safe and civil online environment for all users.

Critics, however, remain skeptical. Advocacy groups argue that the 'sensitive issues' label may obscure vital educational and empowering content. They warn that the approach could inadvertently teach children that issues of justice and equality are controversial opinions rather than universally recognized values. The legal challenges and public backlash underline the ongoing debate over the balance between safety, free expression, and accountability on digital platforms used primarily by minors.

Roblox's handling of this complex situation will likely have far-reaching consequences. The platform’s response to both the backlash against the 'sensitive issues' label and the legal actions by YouTubers and advocacy groups will shape public perception and trust. As Roblox continues to expand its safety systems, the effectiveness of AI tools, parental controls, and content moderation policies will be closely watched by both regulators and the community.

Image Credit: Bitdefender

The current situation illustrates the challenges faced by platforms serving millions of young users while navigating legal, ethical, and social expectations. Roblox's attempt to balance innovation, user engagement, and child safety remains under intense scrutiny. With multiple lawsuits, public criticism, and ongoing debates about content moderation and safety, the company must demonstrate that its policies can protect users without suppressing vital educational and creative content.

As legal proceedings develop and advocacy groups maintain pressure, Roblox is at a critical juncture. The outcome of these disputes will likely influence industry-wide approaches to safety and content moderation on platforms catering to children and teens. Roblox’s strategies in the coming months will be key indicators of how the platform plans to reconcile its growth ambitions with the responsibility of protecting a vulnerable user base.