Russia Bans Roblox, Citing “Extremist” and “LGBT Propaganda” Content
Russia has blocked access to the popular U.S.-based gaming platform Roblox, accusing it of spreading “extremist materials” and “LGBT propaganda.” The move marks the latest in a series of crackdowns by Moscow on Western digital platforms it deems harmful or in violation of domestic laws.
Watchdog Cites Moral Concerns Over Platform Content
Russia’s communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, announced the ban on Wednesday, claiming that Roblox contained “inappropriate content that can negatively impact the spiritual and moral development of children.” The decision follows similar actions taken against foreign platforms accused of breaching Russia’s strict internet and censorship laws.
A Roblox spokesperson told Reuters that the company “respects the local laws and regulations in the countries where we operate” and remains committed to providing “a positive space for learning, creation and meaningful connection for everyone.”
The spokesperson added that Roblox has “a deep commitment to safety” and employs a robust system of preventative measures to detect and remove harmful material from the platform.
Roblox Faces Global Scrutiny Over Child Safety
Roblox, which reported an average of 151.5 million daily active users during the third quarter of this year, has faced similar bans in other countries, including Iraq and Turkey. Authorities in those nations cited concerns about child exploitation and predatory behaviour on the platform.
In Russia, Roskomnadzor has a long history of restricting access to Western media, educational and technology platforms. Last year, it warned the language-learning app Duolingo to remove all references to what it calls “non-traditional sexual relations.” The company complied to avoid a ban.
Broader Crackdown on Online Expression
The Roblox ban comes amid an intensifying campaign by Russian authorities against what they classify as “LGBT propaganda.” In 2023, Moscow designated the so-called “international LGBT movement” as an extremist organisation, equating its supporters with terrorists. The classification has since been used to justify criminal charges against activists and individuals expressing support for LGBT rights.
Roskomnadzor has also escalated pressure on messaging platforms. Earlier this year, the watchdog restricted some call functions on Meta-owned WhatsApp and on Telegram, alleging that both refused to share data with Russian law enforcement in fraud and terrorism investigations. Just last week, Roskomnadzor threatened to block WhatsApp entirely if it did not comply with local data-sharing demands.
The Roblox ban is likely to deepen the divide between Russia and major Western tech firms, many of which have already scaled back operations or been blocked in the country since 2022.
with inputs from Reuters