After Instagram, Turkey bans Roblox over child exploitation concerns
The Turkish government has imposed a ban on video game platform Roblox, due to concerns about content that might potentially lead to child abuse. The decision was announced by Justice Minister Yilmaz Tunc following an investigation led by prosecutors in Adana, a southern province of Turkey. Tunc emphasized the country's commitment to child protection in a statement on X. The ban on Roblox follows Turkey's recent restriction of Instagram.
Ban enforced under internet broadcasting laws
The ban on Roblox was enforced by Adana Criminal Court of Peace, under Turkey's internet broadcasting laws. Tunc further clarified in his post that "Access to Roblox and its links in the application markets has been blocked by the Adana 6th Criminal Court of Peace, within the scope of issues specified in 'Law on Regulation of Publications Made in Internet Environment and Combating Crimes Committed by Means of Such Publications' due to content that could lead to exploitation of children."
Roblox responds to ban
In response to the ban, a spokesperson for Roblox, that hosts user-created games, stated that user safety is their top priority. The spokesperson said, "We respect the laws and regulations in countries where we operate and share local lawmakers' commitment to children. We look forward to working together to ensure Roblox is back online in Turkey as soon as possible."
Turkey's recent social media restrictions
The Roblox ban follows Turkey's blocking of Instagram last week, for failing to comply with certain laws and public sensitivities. Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu, has announced plans for discussions with Meta officials to address this issue.
