Roblox Enforces Global Age Checks for Chat Access
Roblox is now requiring all users worldwide to complete age verification to access in-game chat features, marking a significant shift in how the platform manages user safety and communication. The rollout, which began on January 7, 2026, represents the first time a major online gaming platform has implemented mandatory facial age checks for all users seeking to use chat functionality.
How the Age Verification Process Works
Users who want to chat on Roblox must complete a facial age verification through the platform’s mobile or desktop app. The verification process requires users to open the Roblox app, grant camera access, and follow on-screen instructions for facial verification.
The technology is powered by third-party vendor Persona, whose age estimation models achieved a Mean Absolute Error of 1.4 years for users younger than 18, based on testing by the Age Check Certification Scheme in the U.K. Images and videos are deleted immediately after processing for privacy protection.
Users 13 and older have the option to verify their age through ID verification instead of facial verification, providing an alternative method for older players who prefer not to use facial recognition.
Age-Based Chat Groups and Restrictions
Once verified, users are placed into one of six age categories: under 9, 9 to 12, 13 to 15, 16 to 17, 18 to 20, and 21 plus. Users in each age group can chat with people in the groups directly above and below theirs—for example, users in the 9-12 category can chat with users in their own group, as well as those in the under 9 and 13-15 groups.
Chat features are not accessible to any users under the age of 9 unless a parent grants them access. Age-checked users 13 and older can connect and chat more freely with people they know beyond their immediate age group using the Trusted Connections feature.
Privacy and Appeal Options
Age checks are completely optional; however, features like chat will not be accessible unless an age check is complete. Users who believe the age-check process incorrectly estimated their age can appeal the decision and verify through alternative methods, including ID verification or parental controls.
Roblox is also constantly evaluating user behavior to determine if someone is significantly older or younger than expected, and will soon begin asking users to repeat the age-check process in such situations. Parents continue to have access to their child’s linked account and can modify their child’s birthday through Parental Controls.
Context: Child Safety Concerns
The age verification requirement comes amid multiple lawsuits, including from the attorneys general of Texas and Louisiana, against Roblox over child safety concerns, following reports that the platform was exposing young users to dangerous risks such as grooming and explicit content.
Roblox has stated that the new age-check requirement will provide a more accurate way to verify users’ ages, compared with simply having users enter their birth year when creating an account, and positions itself as establishing what the company believes will become a new industry standard for communication safety.
Photo by TheOtherKev on Pixabay