Moscow: Roskomnadzor, the Russian federal executive agency responsible for monitoring, controlling, and censoring mass media and the internet, has blocked access to the US-based online gaming platform Roblox. The agency's press service informed reporters of this action, which was taken on Wednesday.
According to Anadolu Agency, the decision to block Roblox was due to the persistent circulation of materials promoting or justifying extremist and terrorist activities. The state news agency TASS reported that such content continued to appear on the platform despite earlier warnings issued to Roblox Corporation.
The regulator's monitoring efforts revealed content that included calls for violence, simulations of terrorist attacks, and LGBT-related material, which is prohibited under Russian law. Roskomnadzor criticized Roblox's internal moderation system, stating it had repeatedly failed to ensure a safe environment for users, particularly minors.
Further concerns were raised by the agency regarding reports of sexual harassment involving children and scenarios that encouraged minors to engage in unlawful or violent acts. Before deciding to block access, Roskomnadzor confirmed that it had sent multiple notices to Roblox, demanding the removal of prohibited content.