Roblox Launches Age Verification With Face Scan, ID For Unfiltered Chats

Roblox has introduced a new age verification system requiring users to prove they are over 13 to access unfiltered chats and social features, renaming 'Friends' to 'Connections' and creating a subset called 'Trusted Connections' for safer, more open communication. Verification involves an optional video selfie analyzed by an AI model developed with identity verification company Persona, with government ID as a fallback; biometric data is deleted after 30 days unless legally required otherwise. Communication between users under 18 and adults is restricted unless they have a verified real-life relationship, confirmed via QR code or contact import. These measures aim to enhance child safety on the platform, addressing past concerns over unmoderated interactions and inappropriate content, especially given that a large portion of Roblox users are minors. Roblox’s efforts align with broader industry and regulatory trends toward robust online age verification, including initiatives by the European Union. The company emphasizes continued monitoring of messages to prevent harmful behavior despite the removal of chat filters for trusted users.