Online child safety campaigners, including psychologist Jonathan Haidt, have called on the Trump administration to investigate Roblox, the gaming platform with 150 million daily users, many under 13. The groups argue the platform's design and business model conflict with children's developmental needs.
The Anxious Generation Movement, Fairplay, and the National Center on Sexual Exploitation filed the request citing concerns about Roblox's structure and monetization practices.
Roblox operates as a user-generated content platform where players create and share games, alongside integrated chat and social features. Critics argue these elements—combined with in-game purchases and creator incentives—create addictive patterns particularly harmful to developing minds.
The campaigners contend that the platform prioritizes engagement and revenue over child welfare protections. They point to documented issues including inadequate content moderation, exposure to inappropriate material, and predatory behavior risks.
Haidt, author of The Anxious Generation, has been vocal about social media's role in rising youth mental health crises. His advocacy group focuses on limiting algorithmic feeds and addictive features targeting minors.
Roblox has previously stated commitment to safety through parental controls and content guidelines. The company has not yet responded to the investigation request.
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