Roblox Under Investigation as Dutch Authorities Cite Risks to Minors

The Dutch consumer watchdog organization ACM has launched a formal investigation into Roblox, citing several potential risks to minors, in particular in relation to its compliance with the EU Digital Services Act.

Roblox, one of the most popular gaming platforms for children worldwide, is already being investigated in many countries. Now, Dutch regulators have opened an investigation into Roblox as well, raising questions about how effectively the platform protects minors.

The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) announced that it had launched an official investigation into Roblox. The probe focuses on whether Roblox complies with the European Union’s Digital Services Act, a regulation designed to strengthen online safety, especially when it comes to children.

According to ACM, Roblox may be exposing minors in the EU to potential harm. This might include access to violent or explicit content created within user-generated “experiences,” or the risk of inappropriate contact between adults and children.

They are also investigating the use of so-called dark patterns that may pressure younger users into making in-game purchases.

“The investigation focuses on the platform’s measures regarding the protection of minors,” explained the authorities.

“According to the Digital Services Act (DSA), platforms must put in place appropriate and proportionate measures to ensure a high level of privacy, safety, and security of minors. ACM, which enforces compliance with the DSA in the Netherlands, and as one of its key priorities is the protection of minors against online abuse and deception, will now investigate whether Roblox has done so,” they added.

What the investigation involves

The ACM’s investigation will focus on Roblox’s measures to protect minors, rather than on financial issues. The regulator says the process is expected to take around 12 months.

It’s possible that the investigation will find Roblox is respecting the rules. If not, the AMC could take action in the form of a binding instruction, fine or order subject to periodic payments.

Roblox’s response

According to a Reuters report, a Roblox spokesperson has said that the company is “strongly committed to complying ‍with the EU Digital Services Act,” pointing out the measures already taken in this direction.

“We look ⁠forward to providing ⁠the ​ACM with further clarity on the many policies and safeguards we have in place to protect minors,” the spokesperson added.

FAQ

1. Why are EU regulators investigating Roblox?
   They want to determine whether Roblox adequately protects children from harmful content, inappropriate contact and manipulative design practices under the EU Digital Services Act.
2. What rules does the Digital Services Act impose on platforms like Roblox?
   The DSA requires platforms accessible to minors to actively reduce risks, protect children’s privacy and safety, and make it easy to report illegal or harmful content.
3. How long will the Dutch investigation into Roblox last?
   The Dutch regulator expects the investigation to take around 12 months.
4. What penalties could Roblox face if it breaks EU rules?
   Authorities could issue binding orders, impose fines, or require changes to how the platform operates.
5. Are other gaming platforms under similar scrutiny in Europe?
   Yes. European regulators have already taken action against other game publishers over child protection and in-game monetization practices.