ISTANBUL 

Officials in Los Angeles, California have taken legal action against Roblox, accusing the platform of exposing children to sexual content, exploitation, and online predators.

In a statement on Thursday, the County of Los Angeles said it had filed suit against Roblox, alleging that “while Roblox markets itself as a safe digital space for creativity, it is in reality an unsafe online environment that has become a breeding ground for predators.”

“The lawsuit alleges that children in Los Angeles County have been repeatedly exposed to sexually explicit content, exploitation and grooming on Roblox because the company chooses to put corporate profit over the safety of children,” the statement said.

The lawsuit alleged that Roblox has failed to implement “effective moderation or age verification systems,” despite repeated public assurances that its platform is safe for kids.

According to the statement, the lawsuit was filed by County Counsel Dawyn R. Harrison on behalf of the people of the state of California.

“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,” said Harrison. “The trauma that results is horrific, from grooming, to exploitation, to actual assault. This needs to stop.”

Roblox says it has 144 million daily users worldwide, over 40% under 13. Under fire over child safety concerns, it has introduced age-based content limits, messaging restrictions, and selfie age verification for millions of young users.

Roblox has faced scrutiny and restrictions in numerous countries worldwide, including Australia, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Belgium, Türkiye, and Malaysia