A troubling investigation by Sky News has uncovered how illegal online casinos are using the popular gaming platform Roblox to target children. These unlicensed operators allow young users to gamble using Roblox accounts, taking advantage of the platform’s popularity among children under 12. This revelation raises serious concerns about the safety of children online and the regulation of digital platforms.
How Roblox is Being Exploited by Gambling Sites
The mechanics are disturbingly simple. These illegal casinos accept Robux—the in-game currency used in Roblox—for virtual gambling chips. Players can use these chips to place bets in various casino-style games. Here’s where it gets worse: winnings can be converted into cryptocurrency and eventually real cash.
One U.S. teenager shared with Sky News that he wasn’t even aware gambling was illegal. “I didn’t even know what gambling was,” he admitted. “I just thought it was something you could do to make extra money.” The allure of “bigger and bigger bets” was hard to resist, he said, even when his mother tried to intervene.
This exploitation highlights a gap in safeguarding mechanisms on gaming platforms, particularly those that are wildly popular with children.
UK Gambling Commission Steps In
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has already taken action, blocking three illegal gambling sites that targeted Roblox users: RBLXWild, Bloxmoon, and BloxFlip.
Andrew Rhodes, CEO of the UKGC, was unequivocal in his condemnation. “At the end of the day, illegal casino operators are criminals. Criminals will always try and find new ways to exploit people, including children,” he said in a statement to Sky News.
The proactive stance of the UKGC is a step in the right direction, but enforcement alone won’t solve the underlying issue. Experts are calling for stricter oversight and better parental controls to prevent children from accessing these sites in the first place.
Roblox Responds to the Allegations
Roblox, for its part, denies any endorsement or involvement with these illegal casinos. A spokesperson stated, “We welcome further law enforcement action and vigilance from web hosting providers to shut down sites like this.”
Despite this stance, the company is under fire. A group of U.S. parents has filed a lawsuit against Roblox, accusing it of failing to address the issue adequately. Lawyer James Bilsborrow, who represents the parents, was scathing in his criticism: “They knew for years it was happening, and they didn’t do anything.”
The lawsuit could potentially force Roblox to take more responsibility for monitoring how its platform and currency are used, particularly by third parties.
What This Means for Parents and Regulators
The revelations underscore the need for heightened vigilance among parents, who might not realise their children are engaging in activities that can spiral into serious legal and financial trouble. The mix of in-game currencies, unregulated gambling, and children’s online activities creates a potent and dangerous cocktail.
For regulators, this case shines a light on how digital ecosystems can be manipulated. As online platforms like Roblox continue to grow, so too must the measures to protect their youngest users.
