Egypt blocks access to Roblox over child safety concerns

WEB DESK: Egypt has blocked access to the US-based online gaming platform Roblox across the country starting from February 4. The decision was taken by the Supreme Council for Media Regulation (SCMR) in coordination with the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) due to concerns about children’s safety.

According to Arab News, authorities said Roblox includes inappropriate and violent content that is not suitable for young users. They also warned that the platform allows children to communicate with strangers, which could expose them to harmful behaviour and negatively affect their mental and emotional well-being.

The ban comes after pressure from lawmakers, who called for stricter rules to protect children’s morals and education. Some senators argued that such platforms promote violence and unhealthy behavior, which goes against the government’s media policies.

With this move, Egypt joins countries like Qatar, Iraq, and Türkiye, where Roblox has already been restricted or banned. In the United States, some states have also taken legal steps over similar child protection concerns.

Roblox Corporation said it has contacted Egyptian authorities and is willing to discuss solutions to address safety issues and possibly restore access. The company said it has already introduced age checks and regional safety controls in some countries.

Reactions to the ban have been mixed. Many parents welcomed it as a way to protect children online, while young users expressed disappointment. Some users have talked about using VPNs to bypass the restriction.

Roblox is popular worldwide, especially among children and teenagers, as it allows users to create and play millions of games. However, it has often been criticized for weak control over user-generated content.

Officials said the ban is part of a broader effort to regulate online platforms and protect minors. The restriction will remain unless talks lead to changes, and parents are encouraged to look for safer gaming alternatives for children.