Roblox asks users for age verification

The online gaming platform Roblox had already announced that it would introduce stronger age verification measures by the end of 2025. Now, players and guardians are receiving corresponding notification emails from Roblox stating that age verification will be necessary for the chat function.

Using a facial scan, which Roblox calls a “Video Selfie,” the company aims to ensure that the minimum age of 13 is met. Users film their faces from multiple angles with the smartphone's front camera. The software derives biometric data from this, which is then evaluated by the external service provider Persona. If the recognition fails, there is also the alternative of presenting an official identification document that confirms the age.

The data is to be “deleted immediately after processing.” Roblox adds: “Age verification is completely optional. However, chat is only available if such verification has been performed.” For even younger children, Roblox requires further consent: “If your child is under 9 years old, they will need your permission to use the chat functions. In the parental controls, you can view your child's age verification status, update your child's chat settings, and much more.”

Automatic Age Detection Tricked

Roblox already activated the age verification system internationally last week. Spoiler alert: Minors, please do not read further from here! According to Engadget, the age verification system from Roblox is as effective as this warning reportedly. According to this, a child drew a mustache and stubble on their face and thus outsmarted the system. Online videos are said to show how children make the system believe they are already adults by holding avatar images in front of the camera – in one case, according to the report, a photo of Kurt Cobain was enough.

However, this would indicate remarkably poor software that Roblox is using. Age verification systems can function much better. Artificial intelligence evaluates more features than stubble, such as dark circles, contours, and wrinkles. Furthermore, a face usually has to be shown from all sides and in motion. This would not be possible with a photo.

There are also reports of misclassifications in the other direction, namely that people were estimated to be younger. A 23-year-old was reportedly mistaken for 16 to 17 years old and complained that he didn't want to “chat with damn kids.” Furthermore, according to another report, an 18-year-old was placed in the 13 to 15 age group.

Roblox created the age verification system in response to allegations that the company has a problem with child predators in chat.

(dmk)