Roblox has introduced a new age verification update that has triggered widespread criticism from its player base. The update comes at a time when the platform is facing serious concerns around online safety, including an ongoing problem related to predators. In some cases, real-world complaints have reportedly been filed after children were manipulated and, in extreme instances, kidnapped.
In response, David Baszucki, CEO, Roblox introduced an age-check feature that scans a player’s face and uses Persona AI to estimate their age. However, players say the system is deeply flawed. Users with “baby faces” are reportedly being flagged as underage, restricting their ability to chat with friends. At the same time, children have already found ways to bypass the system by drawing beards on their faces, altering their appearance, or using a parent’s face to gain approval for a higher age category.
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Criticism mounted quickly, with many saying the update failed almost immediately. Popular Roblox YouTubers, including KreekCraft, were reportedly unable to interact with parts of their audience because they were classified as being in a different age group. Players also complained that teamwork-heavy games such as 99 Nights in the Forest, Work at a Pizza Place, Golf Frenzy, and Dead Rails became difficult to play due to chat restrictions.
Despite the update, users argue that predators can still communicate with children by buying older accounts or bypassing the system entirely, raising questions about the effectiveness of the feature. “Is this update even working?” many players have asked.
Attention has also turned to an individual known as Schlep, who has been actively exposing predators on Roblox. Schlep has publicly shared that he previously had a traumatic experience involving a Roblox game developer. Rather than distancing himself from the platform, he began using fake identities to lure predators, collect evidence, and assist law enforcement. According to public claims, Schlep has helped lead to the arrest of six predators.
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In 2025, Schlep was banned from Roblox and issued a cease-and-desist notice. This action sparked the #FREESCHLEP movement, which called on Roblox to lift the ban and drop legal action. Critics argued that Roblox was attempting to suppress uncomfortable truths to protect its business interests. Others blamed Schlep, claiming that if he had remained silent, the controversial age update may not have been introduced.
Schlep himself has repeatedly stated that he does not support the age verification update, calling it “one of the worst updates that Roblox has launched.” Despite this, online criticism directed at him has continued. Further controversy surrounds Matt Kaufman, Chief Safety Officer, Roblox. Critics have pointed to so-called “Condo games”, games containing inappropriate content that are often hidden under age ratings of 5+, as ongoing safe havens for predators. Kaufman’s Roblox account, @RbxRocketMan, allegedly displays badges linked to such games. While some argue this could be part of internal moderation checks, critics note that many of these games have remained active for up to a decade without being removed.
Adding to the concerns, Persona, the company providing Roblox’s age estimation technology, has previously faced a lawsuit related to the collection of facial images of delivery workers. Experts and community members continue to urge parents to speak openly with children who use Roblox, especially those who have completed age verification. Parents are advised to discuss online friendships, warn children about inappropriate behavior, and stress the importance of not sharing personal information. Children should also be encouraged to speak to trusted adults if they encounter anything uncomfortable online.
Written by Latika Rai
