US Senate to investigate Roblox following claims it “prioritises revenue and engagement” over child safety
The US Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism has launched an investigation into Roblox, alleging that the platform prioritizes revenue and engagement metrics over child safety. Senators Josh Hawley (R) and Dick Durbin (D) expressed concern about criminal activity on the platform and contradictions between Roblox’s marketing claims and its actual safety practices.
In their letter to CEO David Baszucki, the senators highlighted that while Roblox markets itself as a safe digital playground for children as young as five, public records raise serious questions about that positioning. They specifically referenced allegations that the platform hosts “sexually explicit and often violent virtual experiences involving children,” suggesting the company may be prioritizing profit over protection.
The investigation requests comprehensive documents and records from Roblox, including details about partnerships with Sesame Street, the NFL, and FIFA—organizations whose involvement would appear to lend credibility to the platform’s child-safe branding. Roblox has been given until August 31st to comply.
Roblox responded by reaffirming its commitment to child safety, stating the platform is “built on the foundation of safety” and expressing readiness to “share the facts about how we work to protect children.” The investigation raises broader questions about how gaming platforms balance commercial interests with user protection, particularly for younger audiences.