Senators Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) have initiated an investigation into the online gaming platform Roblox, alleging that the company prioritizes revenue over children's safety. The senators sent a letter to Roblox highlighting concerns that the platform has enabled exploitation of children and failed to adequately address issues related to child pornography. Roblox is currently facing multiple lawsuits and has previously settled claims for $35 million without admitting wrongdoing.
In their letter, Hawley and Durbin expressed concern that Roblox is accessible to young children and has become a platform for child sexual abuse material (CSAM), leading to serious criminal activities. They cited instances of violence and harm against children facilitated through the platform, including grooming and sexual abuse.
The senators have requested that Roblox provide documents related to child safety and abuse, with a deadline for response set for August 31. In response, Roblox's chief safety officer, Matt Kaufman, stated that the company remains committed to protecting children and will share information on their safety measures.