As one of the largest video game platforms globally, and with a notably significant portion of minors within its user base, Roblox has had to invest significantly in trust and safety technology over the last ten years. In its ongoing initiative to combat abuse, misuse, and harm, the company is launching a new system to authenticate players’ ages: “age estimation” through video selfie analysis.
In a press announcement, Roblox revealed it is restructuring how its social features operate to better safeguard minors from untrustworthy or potentially exploitative interactions. Initially, it is implementing a two-tiered “Connections” system to regulate how players are connected: standard and “Trusted Connections.”
We’re continuously innovating how individuals connect on Roblox. Today, we’re launching Trusted Connections, Age Estimation, well-being tools, and new insights for parents—providing features that enhance connection, transparency, and digital well-being. https://t.co/Pbe3akLnTx pic.twitter.com/c9Cc4pcm5Z
— Roblox (@Roblox) July 17, 2025
Two players established as Trusted Connections will be able to interact freely, including through party and text chat without filters. However, becoming Trusted Connections will entail clearing several obstacles designed to mitigate the risk of child exploitation or other forms of harm.
Essentially, the Trusted Connections feature will only activate if players confirm their ages, which necessitates uploading an ID or using Roblox’s new Age Estimation system. This new system requests players to submit a video selfie, which is subsequently analyzed by the company and compared against “a large and diverse dataset,” according to the press announcement. Roblox assures that this data will be managed “securely,” although specific details concerning its privacy and security measures pertaining to video selfies were not disclosed.
After age verification, players aged 13-17 years can form Trusted Connections with one another. If a minor wishes to create a Trusted Connection with a player older than 18, the minor must verify a real-life association with the other individual through a QR code or by uploading a contact list. Those under 13 will not be permitted to create these connections.
This initiative to enhance protection for under-18 players comes amid a tumultuous year for the company. The Roblox platform hosts Grow a Garden, an experience that surpassed Fortnite’s record for the highest number of concurrent players online at one time back in June. Nonetheless, researchers focusing on online communities have continued to raise concerns regarding Roblox’s vulnerabilities, particularly related to child safety.
Have a news tip or wish to reach out to us directly? Email news@gamespot.com
