Roblox Mandates Age Verification for Chat Access Across the Globe
Roblox has introduced a global policy that requires all users to complete an age check before accessing chat features. As a result, text and voice communication tools are no longer available without verified age information.
The rollout began in early January 2026. Notably, this marks the first time a major gaming platform has linked basic social interaction directly to age verification. Moreover, the requirement applies everywhere the chat system is available worldwide.
How the verification system works
Before chat access is enabled, users must complete an age check through the app. In most cases, this involves a facial age estimation process. Alternatively, users aged 13 and over can choose government ID verification.
Following verification, users are placed into defined age groups, ranging from under nine to 21 and above. Consequently, these groupings determine who can communicate with whom. For example, younger players can only chat with age-appropriate peers. Meanwhile, chat remains disabled for children under nine unless a parent provides verified consent.
According to the platform, images and videos used during age checks are deleted immediately after processing. In addition, users who dispute their results can appeal or select other verification options, including parental controls.
Safety focus and broader impact
The policy arrives amid increased scrutiny of child safety on online platforms. Therefore, the change aims to reduce the risk of inappropriate communication between adults and minors.
In addition to age-gated chat, the wider safety initiative includes stricter communication rules, stronger content moderation, and expanded parental tools. As a result, both users and developers may see lasting changes in how social features function, especially within mixed-age communities.
