Child Safety Advocates Request FTC Investigation Into Roblox's Marketing and Platform Practices

Two children's advocacy groups, Fairplay and the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, have formally requested that the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) open an investigation into Roblox Corporation. According to source reporting, these groups allege that Roblox may have misrepresented its platform's safety to the public and exerted undue influence on minors to engage in in-game spending. The complaint, filed on May 20, 2026, references Section 5 of the FTC Act, which addresses unfair or deceptive business practices. The filing accuses Roblox of using engagement-focused design elements that encourage minors to spend more time and money within the game. Examples referenced in the complaint include a report of a minor allegedly spending over $7,000 on the platform in a short period, potentially circumventing existing parental controls. Additionally, the complaint voices concerns around the use of real-time chat features, suggesting that these communication tools may expose younger users to adult predators and that Roblox has not taken sufficient action to mitigate such risks. This request is supported by a coalition of organizations, such as the Center for Digital Democracy, Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), and several others, expanding the advocacy base for increased regulatory scrutiny. The source notes that this filing is among more than 140 lawsuits currently facing Roblox. Roblox has strongly rejected the claims outlined in the complaint, citing the safety features and improved policies implemented earlier in 2026. A spokesperson maintains that the platform's measures are designed to safeguard young users. As of this reporting, the FTC has declined to comment on the status or likelihood of any investigation. The past actions of the FTC, including a substantial settlement concerning in-game monetization practices by other gaming companies, form part of the advocacy groups' rationale for seeking regulatory investigation in this case. The matter remains under review, with further developments likely as the FTC determines its response.