The online gaming platform Roblox has experienced remarkable success in recent years, emerging as a leading entertainment hub for children.

With a vast library of millions of games, Roblox allows users to design and create their own virtual spaces using simple coding.

However, this popularity has attracted the attention of cybercriminals exploiting vulnerable users, particularly those under the age of 13.

According to the latest data from Roblox Corporation, sales reached over $3.5 billion in the second half of 2024, reflecting significant growth over four years.

Daily active users have surpassed 79.5 million, who collectively have spent around 17.4 billion hours on the platform.

Experts have raised alarms about various dangers facing children on Roblox.

Issues highlighted include the potential for psychological trauma, disruptive behavior changes, cyberbullying, and online harassment, particularly through chat functions.

The platform's age classification has been a point of contention, as children often do not input their correct ages, leading to inadequate protections for younger users.

While Roblox is rated suitable for ages 12 and up by some organizations, a German authority has recently set the recommended minimum age at 16, citing growing concerns about safety risks inherent in the platform.

Cybersecurity expert Abdallah Sami noted that Roblox serves as a virtual environment with a wealth of game options, enabling developers to create and share games.

Most of these games are multiplayer, fostering interaction and competition among players.

Although the platform allows for profile customization, including adding friends and communicating through voice and text, this poses risks, particularly as adults also use the platform to engage with children.

Sami emphasized that exposure to age-inappropriate games, especially violent or malicious content, can lead to adverse psychological impacts on children, potentially affecting their academic performance and overall well-being.

The platform also presents opportunities for exploitation, as predators may use tactics to gain the trust of children, leading to scenarios of online extortion.

Dina Al-Dhanhani, head of research at the Emirates Child Protection Association, reinforced the need for caution.

She noted that online conversations within gaming environments can become venues for manipulation, where harmful individuals might solicit sensitive information or monetary compensation from minors.

Al-Dhanhani cautioned that exposure to violent or inappropriate content, along with excessive gaming, can negatively influence children's mental health and academic outcomes.

Parental supervision has been identified as critical in mitigating these risks.

Experts recommend limiting screen time and implementing parental controls to regulate communications and restrict access to inappropriate content.

Awareness of the online environment and regular monitoring of children's gaming habits can foster safer interactions.

Legal protections for children in the UAE are also in place, such as the Federal Law No. (3) of 2016 concerning children's rights, which mandates service providers to report any harmful online material to the authorities.

Additionally, Dubai's Data Protection Law emphasizes safeguarding individual privacy, including that of minors.

Increased dialogue about digital safety has prompted initiatives aimed at educating school children about the challenges of the digital world, equipping them to navigate online spaces safely and responsibly.

It is vital for parents to remain vigilant and report any potential online threats to relevant authorities to address these concerns effectively.