Roblox under scrutiny: Expert reveals why Jordan is considering banning the game

• Experts highlight dangers of Roblox’s open communication and in-game purchases.
• Parental controls are not fully effective, leaving children exposed to strangers.
• Banning the game is not recommended; supervision and guidance are key.
• Experts stress balancing online gaming benefits with safety measures

Concerns are rising in Jordan and worldwide about the impact of the popular game Roblox on children and teenagers. As debates emerge over the possibility of banning the game in Jordan, video game expert Mohammed Kanakri shared insights on the platform’s risks and the need for cautious use.

Speaking to Roya, Kanakri explained that Roblox is more than a traditional game. It is a platform where users can create and share their own games, making it difficult for parents to control all the content their children encounter.

- Risks of open communication -

Kanakri emphasized that Roblox’s parental control tools are not fully effective, as they mainly regulate visible content but cannot monitor private messages or direct interactions between players.

He warned, “The greatest danger lies in direct communication with others, where parents cannot know the identity of the person communicating with their children, who may try to manipulate the mind and influence the child's behavior.”

While the platform does not promote extreme challenges like the Blue Whale Challenge, it carries behavioral risks from excessive engagement and exposure to inappropriate content.

- Financial and security risks -

Roblox allows users to purchase in-game items with bank cards, which can create vulnerabilities for hacking and data theft. Kanakri noted, “Smart devices can be hacked and banking information stolen, so caution must be exercised when entering any financial information.”

- Banning is not the solution -

Despite these concerns, Kanakri stressed that banning Roblox is not the ideal solution. He recommended a multi-layered approach including parental supervision, teacher involvement, and digital monitoring tools.

Scientific studies also highlight that electronic games can benefit children by improving creativity, problem-solving, and logical thinking. However, unsupervised or excessive use can lead to negative outcomes.

- A message to parents -

Kanakri urged parents to monitor their children closely, set screen-time limits, and guide them toward safe content. He emphasized that continuous oversight and open communication are the best ways to protect children’s psychological, financial, and social well-being while allowing them to enjoy gaming.