Russia has restricted access to the Roblox platform nationwide, citing concerns over inappropriate content that could harm children's development. The communications watchdog Roskomnadzor accused the game of distributing extremist materials, including LGBTQ+ propaganda and terrorism simulations. This move follows similar bans in other countries and ongoing global scrutiny of Roblox's safety measures.
Background on the Ban
On December 4, 2025, Russia's Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media (Roskomnadzor) announced the blocking of Roblox, describing the platform as 'rife with inappropriate content that can negatively impact the spiritual and moral development of children.' The decision stems from reports of child sexual harassment, the spread of illicit images, and the presence of extremist materials such as 'LGBT propaganda' and simulations of terrorist attacks. Roblox, one of Russia's most downloaded games, now joins Turkey, which banned the platform last year for similar child protection reasons.
Russia has a history of restricting Western tech and media, including apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, under laws that prohibit 'propaganda of non-traditional sexual relationships' to minors since 2013. Roskomnadzor's actions align with this framework, where queer content is deemed extremist regardless of context.
Roblox's Response and Safety Context
A Roblox spokesperson stated to Reuters, 'We respect the local laws and regulations in the countries where we operate, and believe Roblox provides a positive space for learning, creation and meaningful connection for everyone.' They emphasized the company's 'deep commitment to safety' with proactive measures to prevent harmful content.
The platform has faced intensified criticism recently. A June 2024 Bloomberg investigation revealed rampant pedophilia issues, leading to lawsuits from several U.S. states against Roblox Corporation for inadequate child protection. Despite additions like facial-scanning and age-verification systems, a report noted 13,316 instances of child exploitation last year. Roblox has since mandated age checks for communication.
In a New York Times interview, CEO David Baszucki addressed the challenges: 'We think of it not necessarily just as a problem, but an opportunity as well... How do we allow young people to build, communicate and hang out together?' He highlighted the company's long-term focus on safety since its founding nearly 20 years ago. Another spokesperson told Eurogamer, 'We've spent almost 20 years making Roblox one of the safest online platforms for our users, particularly the youngest.'