Los Angeles County has filed a lawsuit against social media gaming platform Roblox, alleging the platform has failed to protect children from predatory behavior. The suit claims Roblox markets itself as a safe digital space but is, in reality, an unsafe environment where predators can operate.
Allegations of Negligence
The lawsuit alleges children in Los Angeles County have been exposed to sexually explicit content, exploitation, and grooming on Roblox. These allegations center on the claim that Roblox prioritizes corporate profit over the safety of children, failing to implement effective moderation or age verification systems despite public assurances of a safe platform.
“This lawsuit is about protecting children from online predators and inappropriate content,” stated Los Angeles County Board Chair and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis. “Roblox has a responsibility to maintain kids safe, but instead it has allowed its platform to become a place where children can be exposed to grooming, and exploitation. Los Angeles County is taking action to hold the company accountable and demand real safeguards.”
County Counsel Dawyn R. Harrison, who filed the lawsuit on behalf of the People of the State of California, stated, “This is not about a minor lapse in safety. It is about a company that gives pedophiles powerful tools to prey on innocent and unsuspecting children.”
Platform Safety Concerns
The lawsuit alleges Roblox has not effectively moderated game content or enforced age-appropriate restrictions. It further claims Roblox failed to disclose the dangers of its platform to children, including the presence of inappropriate material, sexual content, and the risk of encountering sexual predators, including registered sex offenders.
Rafael Carbajal, Director of the County’s Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA), stated, “Roblox has long been aware that predators use its product to target and exploit children, yet it has failed to take the actions necessary to prevent this horrific practice. Children are paying the price.”
What’s Next?
The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, seeks injunctive relief, abatement, and civil penalties of up to $2,500 per day for each violation of law. It is the first of its kind filed by a California governmental entity targeting Roblox for child endangerment and exploitation. The case will be prosecuted by County Counsel’s Affirmative Litigation and Consumer Protection Division. A copy of the complaint is available online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific legal claims being made against Roblox?
The claims in the lawsuit include alleged violations of California’s Unfair Competition Law (UCL) and False Advertising Law (FAL) (Bus. & Prof. Codes §§ 17200 and 17500 et seq.).
Where can parents report concerns about their child’s experience on Roblox?
Parents with complaints can contact the County’s DCBA by emailing [email protected], filing a complaint online at dcba.lacounty.gov, or calling 800-593-8222.
What is the role of the County’s Department of Consumer and Business Affairs?
Since 1975, the County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) has served as the local consumer protection agency, providing services to enhance the economic wellbeing of communities, including investigating consumer fraud complaints and enforcing worker protections.
What steps will be taken to ensure the safety of children using online gaming platforms?
