Russia Bans Roblox for ‘LGBT Propaganda’ and Extremism
▼ Summary
– Russia is restricting access to Roblox after its communications regulator accused the platform of promoting extremism and “LGBT propaganda.”
– The regulatory action followed a media report detailing how children could access inappropriate content on Roblox despite parental controls.
– Russian authorities claim content on Roblox may harm children’s development, exposing them to sexual harassment and coercion.
– This is part of a broader pattern, as Russia has previously banned or restricted platforms like Discord, Facebook, and Instagram.
– In response, Roblox announced new measures to lock down sexual content and implement an age estimation process for chat features.
Russian authorities have moved to block the popular online gaming platform Roblox, citing concerns over content that allegedly promotes extremist views and what the government terms “LGBT propaganda.” This decision by the national communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor, represents the latest in a series of restrictive measures against foreign digital services. The action follows a report highlighting the potential for children to encounter inappropriate material on the platform, even with parental controls activated.
Lawmakers in Russia initiated scrutiny of Roblox shortly after international media coverage detailed how users could access content deemed unsuitable for minors. The communications regulator asserted that material on Roblox poses a risk to the “spiritual and moral development of children,” alleging exposure to sexual harassment, coercion, and violent themes. This aligns with a broader pattern of digital platform restrictions within the country, which has previously targeted services including Discord, Facebook, Instagram, and more recently, imposed new limits on FaceTime and WhatsApp.
In response to these developments, Roblox has outlined new safety measures. The company announced it is implementing stricter controls to limit sexual content and will introduce a mandatory age estimation process for users who wish to utilize the platform’s chat features. A spokesperson for Roblox stated the company respects local laws and maintains that its platform fosters a positive environment for creativity, learning, and social connection. The spokesperson’s comments were directed at Reuters, while a request for comment from another news outlet received no immediate response.
The blocking of Roblox underscores the ongoing tension between global tech companies and Russian regulatory frameworks, which increasingly enforce strict content laws concerning youth protection and traditional values.
(Source: The Verge)
