At Demesmin and Dover Law Firm family means the world to us—both our own and the families we serve. We consider everyone at our firm part of our extended “firm-ily,” and that’s why protecting you and your loved ones is our top priority. Whether it’s a car or truck accident, or something more personal and devastating, we are here to stand by your side every step of the way.
Recently, we’ve become deeply concerned about the safety of children playing online games, especially the wildly popular game Roblox. With over 85 million daily users, roughly 40% of whom are under 12 years old, Roblox is a beloved platform for kids—but recent lawsuits allege that it has also become a troubling environment where predators are finding ways to exploit vulnerabilities. A significant portion of Roblox users are teens, meaning that age-appropriate features and protections for different age groups are essential when it comes to the game.
Despite parents’ reasonable expectations that games like Roblox have safeguards to protect children, multiple lawsuits have potentially revealed serious gaps in the platform’s security measures. For example, a recent lawsuit filed by the Louisiana Attorney General highlighted ongoing concerns, to which Roblox issued a public response outlining their safety initiatives and commitment to improvement. In one instance, these gaps are alleged to have allowed cases of sexual exploitation and trauma to occur, leaving families devastated.
Roblox has stated that they are committed to child safety and continue to enhance their safety features, including age verification, parental controls, and moderation tools. The platform uses advanced systems to block harmful content and comments, aiming to create a safer environment for all users. Users can create their own experiences and content, which is why monitoring what is created is crucial to prevent inappropriate material.
Introduction to Online Risks
The internet offers endless opportunities for learning and fun, but it also exposes children to serious risks that every parent should be aware of. Bad actors can use online platforms to target kids for human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and other forms of abuse. While tech companies like Roblox are making efforts to protect children, no system is foolproof and recent lawsuits are alleging they are not doing enough. That’s why it’s so important for parents to stay vigilant, understand the different forms of exploitation, and know how to identify warning signs. By being proactive and reporting suspicious behavior to law enforcement, you can help keep your family safe and ensure your kids enjoy a secure online experience.
Understanding the Threats
Child predators are often skilled at hiding their intentions, using inconspicuous methods to connect with and exploit children online. They may use hidden cameras, coded messages, or seemingly innocent conversations to gain a child’s trust. As a parent, it’s crucial to be aware of these threats and to talk openly with your kids about how to stay safe. Encourage your children to share anything that makes them uncomfortable and remind them that not everyone online is who they claim to be. Law enforcement agencies are dedicated to protecting children, but your awareness and communication are key to preventing exploitation and keeping your kids safe.
How Can Parents Protect Their Kids?
Stay Informed: Know which games your child is playing and how they work, and learn about the platform’s features and potential risks.
Enable Parental Controls: Use the built-in safety features, set age-appropriate restrictions, and enable child safety settings.
Monitor Gameplay: Keep computers or devices in common areas, periodically review your child’s friends and interactions, block harmful content, and monitor comments and other user-generated content.
Talk Openly: Foster honest conversations with your children about online safety, focus on their safety, understand their feelings, and encourage them to report anything uncomfortable.
Limit Screen Time: Set reasonable limits to balance online activity with offline experiences, as these practices typically enhance safety for both kids and teens.
Encourage your children to create positive content and experiences online.
Holding Online Games Accountable for not safeguarding Children
If you believe your child has been harmed while using Roblox or any other online gaming platform due to inadequate safety measures, we are her to ensure these games are held accountable for failing to protect minors. At Demesmin and Dover, we understand the pain and trauma these experiences cause, and we are committed to supporting families as we fight to ensure these online games take responsibility and your family receives the justice and support you deserve.
Public accountability and legal initiatives are crucial to improving online safety for children. For example, in one recent instance, legal action has led to increased scrutiny and changes in platform policies to better protect minors. We partner with families and organizations to pursue justice and create safer online environments for all.
Your child’s safety and well-being matter deeply to us. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need guidance, support, or legal representation. Together, we can help protect the ones you love and demand better protections for all children online.
Taking Action with Law Enforcement
If you suspect your child has been targeted or exploited online, it’s vital to act quickly and involve law enforcement. Start by documenting any suspicious messages, images, or videos, and keep a record of usernames, dates, and other relevant details. Report the incident directly to the platform, and file a complaint with your local police. You can also reach out to organizations like the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which partners with law enforcement to protect children and support families. By working together with professionals and using available resources, you can help identify bad actors, protect your child, and support other victims and families in your community.