What is Roblox and how can I talk with my child about the game?

In this blog we discuss a lot about this popular online game. We’ve broken this information down into the following sections:

What do the kids say about the game?

What is Roblox, how does it work?

Does it have a classification in New Zealand?

Are parental controls in Roblox an option?

What do we as Classification Advisors say about it?

While you’re here just be aware

Final thoughts and further reading

What do the kids say about the game?

Master Twelve-Year-Old

“Roblox is fun and it’s easy to be good on it... I like to play Blade ball, Squid Game, Piggy and my favourite is Bed wars.”

“What I enjoy the most about Roblox is that it’s easy to make friends.”

“Sometimes I hear some racist and offensive language that comes through the voice chat. I mute other players. I just want to play, I don’t want to hear all of that while they’re playing.”

“Kids like Roblox because it’s free, fun and there are lots of exciting games.”

Miss Eleven Year Old

“I have my friends from school that I play with on Roblox. There are a lot of games on the platform but we mainly play Dress to Impress and Murder vs Sheriff duels.”

“I’ve had a lot of random friend requests from strangers. You don’t know if they’re a kid or an adult. The game has a limit of 200 friends on your list. To make a new friend you have to remove someone else.”

“There are a lot of scams, sometimes by other players – not just for Robux (Roblox money), they scam you to buy them something or trade for something else. Trades for example where you end up with items that aren’t that valuable.

For example, I earned a unicorn through Robux spend and challenges in the game. Another player scammed me by trading another item that’s not as valuable for my unicorn. It was bad but I didn’t know it at the time. It made me really upset.”

What is Roblox, how does it work?

Roblox is a hub for many different games. These games can be created by anyone in the Roblox community. Roblox will recommend games to users, ranking them through engagement and revenue-generation. So as games get popular through repeat use and people making purchases in-game Roblox will rank them higher in players platform feeds. Roblox has a Creator Hub with tips and advice for people creating games for the platform. It is like an open market for games, with demand for popular titles improving placement and promotion on the platform. Roblox provides advice for creators about what works for games based on successful examples. They provide strategies for monetization - selling products within a game.

Roblox is free to use, but some enhancements require ‘Robux’, a virtual currency used within the Roblox universe. You need to use a credit card or vouchers in the real world to purchase/exchange for Robux currency in the game. This is used to purchase special features, upgrade avatar appearances with accessories etc.

Game design 

Roblox's recommendation system uses explore and expand phases to understand the signals above. For example, you might see a spike in new users from recommendations (explore) after a content update. If that new user cohort has good engagement and monetization, Roblox is more likely to continue to recommend your experience to those user cohorts (expand). — from Roblox’s Creator Hub

So in other words, Roblox tries out your content with new users, and if they like it and spend money within the game, it recommends your content to even more people.

Does it have a classification in NZ?

Roblox is a downloadable online game, and does not have a NZ classification. The overarching game age rating is T for Teen (ESRB) with content warning of “Diverse Content: Discretion advised, interactive elements including users interact and in-app purchases”, and “!” Parental Guidance recommended (PEGI). Due to the wide range of user-generated games on the Roblox platform there are limitations to the way the overall age ratings restrict on the platform. Therefore, we recommend parental guidance with children 10 and younger playing Roblox.

You can read more about international game classifications here.

Are parental controls in Roblox an option?

Roblox have enhanced their parental controls so there are now a couple of ways to ensure your child is playing games appropriate for their age and stage. Parental controls must be set for a child account: you do this by linking a parent account to a child account so that you have remote moderation.

Remote moderation means you can set content levels, communication controls, private server authority, spend limits, screen time limit, trading and inventory, and be able to see the friends list for your child.

When creating a child account be sure to enter their actual birth year so that they have access to the right kind of features and experiences on the platform.

Roblox’s parent guide has step-by-step instructions on linking a parent account with a child account.

In November 2024 Roblox updated their parental controls to have a focus on types of content available: You can set the content level, rather than age level, for a player.

These content levels are: Minimal / Mild / Moderate / Restricted (only available for ages 17+).

What do we as Classification Advisors say about it?

Benefits of Roblox

Most importantly Roblox is fun to play and explore, and is a social activity. So it’s not just playing with in-real-life friends but also as a popular shared experience that can help when talking to peers and finding common ground to make new friends offline.

Creative Development and Coding Skills

Roblox allows children to create games using its Roblox Studio, which fosters creativity and introduces basic programming skills. Children can experiment with 3D modelling and scripting, which encourages them to learn coding concepts in a practical, enjoyable manner.

Educational Applications

Teachers and parents have started incorporating Roblox into education for subjects like history, geography, and STEM. For instance:

• Children design historical simulations or geographic landscapes to enhance their understanding.
• STEM applications include improving spatial skills and programming abilities through the creation of virtual environments.

While you’re here just be aware

Roblox is a popular platform for children and teens, blending gaming, creativity, and social interaction. While it offers many benefits, there are risks parents need to to be aware of so that ensure their kids can play safely. Below is a straightforward guide to understanding these risks and practical steps you can take as a parent. It is a good reminder that many of these risks are risks found with the internet in general, but we’ve included actionable advice and information on what you can do as a caregiver to ensure safe online gaming for your whānau.

Exposure to harmful content

Risk: Some games on Roblox, created by users, may include violent, offensive, or adult-themed content. A 2024 Hindenburg Research report found examples of inappropriate material such as "adult studios" trading sexually-explicit content, games promoting hate speech, and scenarios involving explicit roleplay. Unregulated social interactions within the platform can also enable predatory behaviours like grooming, putting children at risk.

What Parents Can Do:

• Enable parental controls: Use Roblox’s account settings to restrict access to age-appropriate games. This includes activating Account Restrictions, which block content not suitable for children.
• Monitor gameplay: Stay informed about the games your child is playing. Regularly check for any inappropriate themes or interactions.
• Limit chat features: Reduce the risk of harmful interactions by turning off the chat feature or restricting communication to a pre-approved list of friends.
• Review game content: Before your child starts a new game, take the time to check its content. Choose games with good reviews and a reputation for being family friendly. Try playing the game first yourself and then later with your child.
• Teach kids to play well with others: Encourage your child to be a good team player and play kindly with others online. If they or someone they play with is being bullied then to let a trusted caregiver know.
• Teach kids to recognise red flags: Help your child identify inappropriate behaviour. Explain that no one should ask for personal information, share inappropriate images, or try to move conversations off the platform.
• Keep play in shared spaces: Encourage your child to use devices in communal areas, such as the living room. This makes it easier for you to monitor their activity and quickly address any concerns.
• Report and block: If you or your child encounter inappropriate content or behaviour, use Roblox’s tools to report it immediately and block the offender. Follow up with Roblox’s support team to ensure the issue is resolved.

Grooming, Predatory Behaviour and the risk of sextortion

Risk: There is well founded evidence showing how predators use Roblox to groom children, including in New Zealand.

New Zealand perspective: Media reports confirm that police in New Zealand have investigated cases where Kiwi children were groomed on Roblox. Grooming often starts with seemingly innocent interactions, such as private chats or friendly gameplay, and can escalate into inappropriate requests or exploitation.

Global Concerns: A report from Bloomberg Businessweek highlights alarming cases of predators using Roblox to groom children. Since 2018, at least two dozen individuals in the United States have been arrested for crimes linked to Roblox, including abduction and abuse. These offenders include registered sex offenders, as well as professionals such as teachers and nurses.

Some predators often use in-game currency, Robux, to gain children’s trust, offering free items or rewards in exchange for personal details or images. Relationships built on Roblox may then move to other platforms and, in some cases, result in real-world exploitation.

A 2024 Hindenburg Research report further revealed explicit user groups and games on Roblox that encourage inappropriate behaviour. This includes adult-themed content, private chats, and usernames linked to known predators. The report also highlighted the lack of effective age verification and content moderation, which allows predators to easily create accounts and interact with children.

In some cases, groups on Roblox were found trading explicit materials and soliciting inappropriate actions from children, creating a significant risk of sextortion. In these situations, children are manipulated into sharing sensitive information or images. Predators often hide their intentions in seemingly harmless games or interactions, exploiting weak moderation to gain access to vulnerable users.

What Parents Can Do:

• Restrict chats: Disable chat features or limit them to communication with approved friends only. This prevents strangers from initiating conversations with your child.
• Regularly check friend lists: Review your child’s Roblox friend list frequently to ensure they are only interacting with people they know in real life and trust. Consider their whole online social world as well, they could make friends on another platform or gaming space and then be brought into their Roblux friend community.
• Teach red flags: Help your child recognise grooming behaviours, such as:

*Strangers asking for personal information or photos.

*Conversations that attempt to move to other platforms like social media.

*Offers of free Robux or in-game perks in exchange for favours.

• Encourage reporting: Show your child how to report inappropriate behaviour or content using Roblox’s tools.
• Stay involved: Play Roblox with your child or check their gameplay and chat logs regularly.
• Choose safe games: Guide your child to play well-reviewed, age-appropriate games. Avoid poorly moderated spaces where risks may be higher.
• Limit play time: Set limits on how much time your child spends on Roblox to reduce exposure to potential risks.
• Encourage open communication: Maintain open dialogue with your child about their online experiences. Make them feel comfortable reporting anything that makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Cyberbullying and Negative Interactions

Risk: Research tells us that children on Roblox may experience bullying, harassment, or inappropriate behavior from other players, particularly through chat functions or during gameplay. This can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, or a negative gaming experience.

What Parents Can Do:

• Restrict communication: Limit who can contact your child by setting the chat feature to “Friends Only” or disabling it entirely. This significantly reduces the likelihood of harmful interactions from strangers.
• Encourage reporting: Teach your child how to use Roblox’s reporting tools to flag offensive or harmful behavior. Ensure they know they can come to you if they encounter bullying. As a parent, follow up with Roblox’s support team to ensure the issue is addressed.
• Maintain open dialogue: Create a supportive environment where your child feels safe discussing their online experiences. Regular conversations can help you identify and address any issues early, while also teaching your child how to navigate negative interactions with confidence.

Financial Pressures and In-Game Spending

Risk: Roblox relies on its in-game currency, Robux, which can tempt children into overspending. Peer pressure to buy virtual items, such as outfits or game upgrades, may also lead to stress or an unhealthy focus on spending.

What Parents Can Do:

• Set spending limits: Use parental controls to restrict or disable in-app purchases. This ensures your child cannot make unapproved transactions.
• Teach financial literacy: Help your child understand the value of money by discussing budgeting. Encourage them to think critically before spending their Robux on virtual items.
• Use prepaid gift cards: Offer Robux through prepaid gift cards rather than linking a credit card to their account. This gives you better control over how much they can spend.
• Monitor transactions: Check your child’s Roblox account activity regularly to make sure there are no unauthorised purchases or unexpected charges.

Scams

Risk: Scammers on Roblox target children in various ways, using the platform’s in-game currency, Robux, as bait. Key risks include:

• Phishing scams: Fraudsters run scams promising free Robux or rewards to trick children into sharing personal information or login details.
• Account hacking: Some users engage in “beaming,” where they hack into accounts to steal valuable in-game items. These stolen items are then sold on illegal marketplaces for real money or cryptocurrency. This activity not only results in financial loss for victims but can also compromise personal information if login credentials are reused across other accounts.
• Malware and viruses: Roblox’s popularity among children has made it a major target for scammers spreading malware and viruses. These scammers often create fake websites offering free Robux or game mods to lure kids, but instead, they install harmful software that can steal personal information or damage devices.

A 2023 Kaspersky report revealed that Roblox was the second most-targeted game for malware. Between July 2022 and July 2023, malware linked to Roblox file names triggered 20% of security alerts on over 30,000 devices worldwide. One of the biggest threats is the SpyNote Trojan, a virus disguised as a Roblox mod. It can:

• Track everything typed (keystrokes).
• Record the screen and access phone cameras.
• Pretend to be official apps like Google or Facebook to trick users into sharing passwords.

What Parents Can Do

• Educate about safe downloads: Teach your child to avoid downloading mods or apps from unofficial sources, as these may be disguised malware. Emphasise that all downloads should come directly from trusted and official sources, such as the Roblox website or app stores.
• Use security software: Install and maintain reliable antivirus and anti-malware software on devices your child uses. This will help detect and block malicious files.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Activate 2FA on your child’s Roblox account to add an extra layer of security. This makes it much harder for hackers to gain access.
• Enable app restrictions: Set up parental controls to limit app downloads from unverified sources. On mobile devices, configure app permissions to prevent unauthorised access to cameras and microphones.
• Discuss suspicious links: Warn your child not to click on links promising free Robux or rewards, especially if these come from emails, messages, or ads. Reinforce the idea that such offers are often scams.
• Monitor account and device activity: Regularly check your child’s Roblox account and device for unusual activity, such as unexpected logouts, unknown apps, or system performance issues.
• Reinforce password security: Teach your child to use strong passwords and avoid reusing them across multiple accounts. Remind them not to share passwords with anyone, even friends.
• Keep software updated: Ensure your devices and apps are always up to date with the latest security patches. Outdated software is often more vulnerable to malware attacks.

Privacy and Stranger Interaction

Risk: Children may accidentally share personal information or interact with strangers, putting their safety at risk. A 2024 report revealed that Roblox struggles to verify user identities, allowing individuals to create multiple accounts, some of which are used for malicious purposes. Children may unknowingly share personal information, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation.

What Parents Can Do:

• Set privacy controls: Use Roblox’s privacy options to restrict who can send messages or view the child’s profile.
• Teach online privacy: Educate your child about the importance of keeping personal information private. Make it clear they should never share details like their full name, address, school, or phone number in chats or on their profile.
• Supervise registration: Assist your child when creating their Roblox account to ensure all details are accurate and secure. This helps you understand the privacy settings and ensures the account setup is as safe as possible.
• Supervise friend requests: Regularly review your child’s friend list and ensure they only accept requests from people they know in real life. Discuss the risks of connecting with strangers online.

Excessive Screen Time

• Risk: Evidence indicates that spending too much time gaming can lead to negative effects such as reduced physical activity, disrupted sleep patterns, and behavioural changes. Prolonged gaming may also interfere with schoolwork or other responsibilities.

What Parents Can Do:

• Set time limits: Establish clear rules about how much time your child can spend on Roblox each day or week. Balance screen time with other activities like outdoor play, homework, or family time.
• Encourage breaks: Teach your child to take regular breaks during gameplay. Short breaks every 30–60 minutes can help prevent overuse and reduce screen-related fatigue.
• Model healthy behavior: Demonstrate balanced technology use by limiting your own screen time and engaging in non-digital activities. Children are more likely to follow your example.

Roblox new safety upgrades

Roblox has recently introduced new safety upgrades to better protect young users in response to reports of abuse. These changes are rolling out now and are expected to be fully implemented by 2025.

Restricting Chats for Under-13 Users

Roblox has tightened communication rules to keep younger players safe:

• Children under 13 are no longer allowed to send private messages to people outside of games.
• In-game chats are limited to public broadcast messages by default, and parents can change these settings if needed.

New parental control features

Parents can now link their own Roblox account to their child’s account, making it easier to monitor and manage from anywhere. With these controls, parents can:

• Set daily screen-time limits so kids can’t access Roblox once they’ve reached their time allowance.
• View their child’s friends list and monitor activity remotely.
• Adjust communication settings and approve content access based on what’s right for their family.

Content labels instead of age ratings

Instead of using age ratings, Roblox now labels games based on the type of content they include, such as “Minimal,” “Mild,” or “Moderate.”

• Kids under 9 will only be able to access “Minimal” or “Mild” content unless parents approve otherwise.
• Kids under 13 won’t have access to certain experiences, like free-form drawing or social hangouts outside of their friends list, to reduce risks.

Enhanced chat filters

Building on existing automatic chat filters, Roblox continues to block personal information sharing in chat to enhance safety for younger players.

Automatic updates as kids grow

As your child gets older, their Roblox settings will automatically adjust to reflect their age group. Parents will receive a notification 30 days before these changes so they can review and make adjustments if needed.

Final Thoughts

Roblox is a creative gaming platform where kids can learn coding, design virtual worlds, and even collaborate with friends on exciting projects. For many parents and educators, it’s also becoming a great way to teach subjects like history and STEM in fun, interactive ways.

But, like any online space, Roblox has its challenges. From inappropriate content to cyberbullying, privacy concerns, and financial pressures, it’s important to stay aware of the risks. Roblox is stepping up its safety game. With new features like restricted chats for younger kids, stronger parental controls, and clearer content labels, it’s easier than ever to create a safer experience for your child.

As parents, there’s a lot you can do to help your kids navigate Roblox safely. Setting screen-time limits, teaching them how to spot scams, and having open conversations about their online experiences are all great ways to keep them protected while they play.

Further reading

Keeping it safe in the gaming space (blog)

Understanding loot boxes: a guide for parents and whānau (blog)

Game on: Our guide to understanding international gaming classifications (blog)

Interesting links

Is Roblox safe for kids? Complete guide for parents in 2024 (Safety Detectives)

What parents need to know about Roblox (ESRB)

Learn How To Stay Safe While Using Roblox With Netsafe | Netsafe (Netsafe)

Is Roblox Safe for Kids? The Parental Safety Guide (2024)

The health effects of too much gaming - Harvard Health

What is Dress to Impress, and why is everyone so obsessed? (Dazed)

Roblox resources:

Well-being (Roblox)

Parenting in the Digital Age Young Kids.pdf

Roblox: Parent & Caregiver Guide - Parental Controls

Safety + Civility