Feb 10 • 02:49 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

Commonwealth asks to meet Roblox after child grooming reports. Here's what we know

Australia's federal government has requested an urgent meeting with Roblox in response to concerns about child grooming and exposure to explicit content on the platform.

In response to alarming reports of child grooming and the exposure of minors to sexually explicit content on the gaming platform Roblox, Australia's federal government has called for an urgent meeting with the company. Communications Minister Anika Wells expressed the government's frustration over the ongoing safety issues that have persisted despite Roblox's previous commitments to engage with the eSafety Commission to enhance its protective measures for younger users. Many Australian parents are increasingly concerned about their children's safety while using the platform.

Ms. Wells highlighted in her correspondence with Roblox that the government has received numerous complaints from parents regarding the perceived inadequacy of the child's safety measures on the platform. Following these reports, she urged Roblox to take immediate actions to rectify the situation. The Australian government is particularly anxious due to its existing social media ban for platforms used by children under 16, which does not currently apply to Roblox, adding another layer of scrutiny to the gaming platform's practices and policies regarding child safety.

The meeting will focus on the tangible steps Roblox plans to implement to ensure a safer environment for its users, particularly minors. The outcome of this meeting could have significant implications for the platform's operations in Australia, including potential regulatory action if satisfactory changes are not made. As public concern grows, it places Roblox under pressure to enhance its commitment to safety and protect its young audience effectively.

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