Roblox Begins Global Age Verification for Chat Features
Published
Key Takeaways
- Roblox age verification rollout: Roblox introduces age checks for chat using facial estimation and ID verification to protect minors.
- Privacy and data risks: Age verification may require sensitive data uploads, creating privacy concerns, breach risks, and challenges globally.
- Effectiveness and trade-offs: Experts question whether age checks deter predators or simply shift risks while limiting user experience.
Roblox has announced a new global age verification system for users who want to access chat features on the platform. The update was shared on January 7, 2026, and applies to features like voice chat and direct messaging.
The move is aimed at improving child safety on the platform, which has a large under-18 user base. However, it has also raised concerns around privacy and data collection.
How the New Roblox Age Verification Works
Under the new system, users must confirm their age to use Roblox’s social features. Roblox is using age estimation technology from its vendor, Persona. Users may be asked to upload images or short videos, which are then used to estimate their age.
If the system estimates the age incorrectly, users can correct it through government-issued ID verification or parental controls. Roblox has stated that images and videos used for facial age estimation are deleted immediately after secure processing.
The company says this approach will make age checks more accurate and reduce the chances of underage users accessing adult interactions or features.
Safety Goals and Privacy Concerns
Roblox says the change is designed to protect children from online predators, harmful content, and unsafe interactions. These risks are widely recognized by parents and regulators worldwide.
At the same time, privacy experts warn that age verification can lead to large-scale collection of sensitive personal data, including IDs, photos, names, and dates of birth. Such data, especially when linked to children, can become a target for cyberattacks if stored or processed improperly.
The global reach of Roblox also adds complexity, as different countries have different data protection and retention laws.
Questions Around Effectiveness
While age checks may limit some risks within Roblox, experts note that determined bad actors often find ways around restrictions, such as creating alternate accounts or moving conversations off the platform.
Parents may also face a difficult choice between sharing sensitive family data or allowing their children limited access to social features.
The Bigger Picture Behind Roblox Age Verification
Roblox’s age verification rollout highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing online safety with user privacy. While the goal of protecting children is widely supported, critics say solutions should avoid unnecessary data collection.
How Roblox manages user data and adapts this system over time will likely shape how age verification is handled across other online platforms in the future.
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