Online Safety Concerns Increase as Inappropriate Content Continues to Bypass Filters on Roblox

KBGY 9 INVESTIGATES: The online platform of Roblox has been advertised to parents as a safe space for young children. However, a serious and disturbing issue is present on the platform, and it has been for many years: The ongoing presence of adult content continues to slip past the platform's strict filters. This issue is particularly concerning considering the fact that 42% of Roblox's player base is under the age of 13.

This isn't just a one-off incident, either. Roblox has faced criticism for years for its inability to effectively police content on the platform. Despite the company's assurances of increased security measures, like automated filters and human moderators, inappropriate content is still widely seen across many different games on Roblox. This content can include images, messages, and even avatars, all of which should not be seen by a minor.


Image from in game showing bypassed explicit messages. (Source: @qauloii on X)

The platform's filters have been proven to be insufficient by users who continuously find ways to bypass the restrictions. In our studies, we've seen many methods of getting past filters, like uploading altered images and manipulating text to get past Roblox's filters. As a result, young players are at risk of encountering content that is far from age-appropriate.

Parents and safety advocates have expressed concern over how easily explicit content can be accessed on Roblox. Many question whether or not the platform is safe for children, especially since this is a reoccurring issue. "Roblox's filtering systems are simply not robust enough to keep pace with the evolving tactics of those who seek to exploit the platform," said a cybersecurity expert. "For a platform with such a young userbase, this is a critical vulnerability that demands immediate and comprehensive action."

Roblox's reputation as a safe platform for young gamers is increasingly at risk due to these ongoing safety concerns. While the company has made efforts to enhance its moderation capabilities and improve its filtering systems, many believe that more needs to be done. Experts advise the platform to step up its security measures. One of the biggest suggestions was employing additional human moderators to better control content on the site.

The responsibility doesn't just fall on Roblox, though. Parents are urged to monitor their children's online activities to ensure they are safe on the internet. Measures you can take as a parent include setting up parental controls, regularly monitoring your child's gameplay, and having open conversations about internet safety.

While Roblox remains a beloved platform for millions of gamers, the sheer amount of inappropriate content being shared on the platform highlights a severe flaw in the platform's safety measures. As long as this behavior continues, many young gamers on Roblox will remain at risk. It is clear to parents and experts alike that the platform needs to take its security more seriously, to ensure it can live up to its reputation as a safe space for children.

Roblox did not respond to our request for comment.