TLDR Philippine National Police ordered its Anti-Cybercrime Group to escalate enforcement against cybercrime on gaming platforms including Roblox Prosecutors flagged Roblox features resembling gambling and potential child exploitation including grooming and sexual predation Roblox has over 111 million daily users with roughly 40% under 13 years old Research from the University of Sydney found children struggle to understand in-game currency and random reward mechanics, with parents calling them “child gambling” The crackdown extends beyond Roblox to other gaming and social media platforms, reflecting a broader international regulatory trend
The Philippine National Police has launched a crackdown on cybercrime linked to online gaming platforms. Roblox, one of the world’s most popular children’s games, was specifically named in the enforcement push.
PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr issued the directive on Sunday. He ordered the Anti-Cybercrime Group to step up efforts against unlawful activity on gaming apps.
The move came after prosecutors raised concerns about features within Roblox that resemble gambling. They also flagged the potential for child exploitation on the platform.
Reports cited misuse of the app including sexual predation, grooming, and exploitation of minors. These allegations prompted the police response.
“Our mandate of serving and protecting the people now encompasses cyberspace to keep them safe, especially for children,” Nartatez said. He added that this is what modern policing means.
Roblox currently reports more than 111 million daily active users. Around 40% of those users are under the age of 13.
The platform allows users to create and play games built by other users. It also features systems for randomised rewards and purchasable virtual items using in-game currency.
Concerns Over In-Game Spending and Child Gambling
These mechanics have drawn scrutiny from regulators and researchers around the world. A study from the University of Sydney found that children