Russia Blocks Roblox Over Content Concerns
- Summary Russia has restricted access to the U.S.-based gaming platform Roblox, citing extremist materials and LGBT-related content.
- The move was announced by Roskomnadzor, the country’s communications watchdog, which argued the platform could harm children’s moral development.
- Roblox, with more than 150 million daily users globally, has faced bans in other countries over safety concerns.
Official Justification
Roskomnadzor stated that Roblox contained inappropriate material that could negatively influence young users. The watchdog has previously taken similar actions against Western platforms it deemed in violation of Russian laws. Authorities emphasized that the restriction was part of broader efforts to safeguard children from harmful online content. The decision aligns with Russia’s tightening regulations on digital platforms and media.
Broader Context of Restrictions
Roblox has already been banned in Iraq and Turkey due to fears of predators exploiting the platform. The company maintains that it employs AI tools, moderation teams, and partnerships with law enforcement to protect users. Russia has a history of targeting apps and websites, including Duolingo, which removed references to LGBT topics after warnings. In 2023, the government classified the “international LGBT movement” as extremist, enabling criminal cases against supporters.
Impact on Digital Platforms
The ban on Roblox comes amid wider scrutiny of foreign-owned services in Russia. Earlier this year, restrictions were placed on WhatsApp and Telegram, with authorities accusing them of failing to cooperate in fraud and terrorism investigations. Roskomnadzor recently threatened to block WhatsApp entirely, signaling continued pressure on global tech firms. These measures reflect Russia’s broader strategy of controlling online content and limiting access to platforms that challenge its regulatory framework.
Roblox’s popularity among children and teenagers has made it a frequent target of safety debates worldwide. According to company data, the platform averaged 151.5 million daily active users in the third quarter of 2025. Analysts note that Russia’s move fits into a pattern of increasing digital censorship, particularly around LGBT content, which the government has linked to extremism. The decision highlights the growing divide between global online communities and national regulatory agendas.
