The rapid expansion of online game platforms and game creation systems such as Roblox, Minecraft, and Fortnite has increased scrutiny, especially concerning its young audience. Here's a summary of the current issues and legal challenges facing these platforms:

Key Issues:

• Audience Demographics: As of February 2022, over 60% of online game platform and game creation system users are under 16, and 55% are 12 or younger.
• Safety Concerns: Critics argue that these platforms fail to protect children from inappropriate content and harmful interactions adequately. Some parents believe the safety measures of the platforms need to be improved.

Legal Actions:

A group of parents in California have filed a lawsuit against Roblox, accusing the company of:

• Misrepresentation: Claiming Roblox, for example, is safer than it is.
• Violations: Breaching various California laws related to consumer protection and advertising.

Specific Allegations:

• Inappropriate content such as sexual avatars and virtual strip clubs.
• Instances of online abuse and predatory behavior, including a case where an adult groomed a minor offline.

Financial Concerns: In-game financial transactions

There were also various financial concerns, such as in-game financial transactions. These online game platforms and game creation systems use virtual currency to complicate spending visibility and may encourage excessive purchases by children who need to grasp the concept of money fully.

Plaintiff Testimonies:

• Plaintiff K.M.: Spent $4,000 on Roblox specifically and discovered her child was exposed to abusive messages.
• Plaintiff Damien Uhl: Found inappropriate messages and interactions after his daughter formed a relationship with an adult posing as a peer.

Roblox's Response: Safety Measures

Roblox asserts it has extensive moderation, filters, and parental controls. The company collaborates with various child safety organizations and implements features to manage spending and monitor activities.

The class action lawsuit, filed in August and amended in October, is still pending. The severe nature of the allegations may lead to a significant legal outcome.

Online game platforms and game creation systems are continually scrutinized for safety practices and financial models, highlighting ongoing concerns about child protection and transparency.

We believe all victims and their families who were sent sexually explicit images, were solicited to send sexually explicit images, or were coerced into meeting in person for sexual purposes while playing Roblox, Minecraft, or Fortnite should receive justice and potential compensation, beginning with a free, private case review with our experienced legal team.