Russia Blocks Roblox, Citing “LGBT Propaganda” and “Extremist Content”
Russia has blocked access to the popular U.S. children’s gaming platform Roblox, claiming the site spreads “LGBT propaganda” and hosts “extremist material,” according to the country’s communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor.
The agency said Roblox contains content that could negatively affect the “spiritual and moral development of children,” and deemed it inappropriate for young users. This was reported by Reuters.
A Roblox spokesperson responded via email, saying, “We respect the local laws and regulations in the countries where we operate and believe Roblox provides a positive space for learning, creation and meaningful connection for everyone.”
They also stressed the platform’s commitment to safety, noting that Roblox has “a robust set of proactive and preventative safety measures designed to catch and prevent harmful content on our platform.”
Roblox is one of the most popular online gaming platforms, averaging 151.5 million daily active users in the third quarter of this year. However, it has faced bans in other countries, such as Iraq and Turkey, due to concerns over predators targeting children.
In this sense, Russia’s decision is not entirely without basis. While the ban is framed as a response to LGBT content, Roblox has long struggled with incidents of s**** predators and child exploitation, highlighting real safety concerns on the platform.
Roskomnadzor has a history of restricting Western tech and media platforms it views as violating Russian law. Last year, the language-learning app Duolingo removed content referencing what Russia considers “non-traditional s**** relations” after warnings from the agency. In 2023, Russia labeled the international LGBT movement as extremist and declared supporters subject to criminal prosecution.
Earlier this year, Russia also began limiting some WhatsApp and Telegram services, accusing the platforms of refusing to share information in fraud and terrorism investigations. Last week, Roskomnadzor even threatened to block WhatsApp completely.
While critics argue the ban is politically motivated and suppresses free access to global platforms, the platform’s safety issues make the move partially understandable. Roblox has repeatedly faced problems with inappropriate interactions and child exploitation, something parents and authorities worldwide have raised concerns about for years.
The situation raises complex questions about child safety, censorship, and digital freedom. What do you think, should governments have the right to block platforms like Roblox over safety concerns, or is this just censorship in disguise? Share your thoughts in the comments.