Roblox Tightens Age Checks With Facial Estimation Roll-Out

Roblox will require all users who access its communication tools to undergo a rigorous age-estimation process by the end of 2025, deploying facial age estimation technology in tandem with identity verification and parental consent. This overhaul intends to replace the unreliable self-reported birthdate mechanism and bolster protection for minors via layered safety measures.

The new system will categorise users into three age brackets-under 13, 13 +, and 18 +-based on selfie analysis, directing access to communication features accordingly. Adults will be prevented from engaging in conversations with minors unless there is a verified in-person connection. This reflects Roblox's gradual expansion of safety protocols, which now include ESRB and international ratings replacing its own maturity labels, providing greater clarity to parents and users.

Roblox's chief safety officer, Matt Kaufman, emphasised that the multi-signal model-combining AI-based facial estimations with parental oversight and ID checks-is designed to reduce impersonation risks and better calibrate access to communication features. The move aligns with broader regulatory momentum, including pressures from U. K., U. S., and EU frameworks favouring stronger age assurance systems.

This initiative emerges amid mounting legal and public scrutiny. Louisiana's attorney general had filed a lawsuit accusing Roblox of fostering environments conducive to exploitation by failing to implement robust safety measures. The complaint highlighted disturbing cases where adults posed as minors and used voice-distortion tools to manipulate child users. Roblox responded by reinforcing its commitment to safety, citing its ongoing moderation efforts and denying the allegations.

Robust age-verification has been under development for some time. Earlier this year, Roblox introduced the“Trusted Connections” model, allowing verified users-age-confirmed via facial scans or ID-to access less-filtered chat functions. Teens aged 13 to 17 can only connect with adults if they demonstrate real-world acquaintance via QR codes or contact import tools. The platform retains monitoring to flag predatory speech, sexualisation, or abusive conduct.

Independent analysis warns that facial age-estimation accuracy varies by demographics and may misclassify users. In response, Roblox's layered strategy aims to limit false positives and negatives while offering permissive access where age can be verified across multiple signals.

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