Popular online gaming platform Roblox is in discussions with Russian authorities in an effort to restore access after being blocked nationwide earlier this month, a move that sparked widespread backlash among young users across the country.
Russia’s media watchdog, Roskomnadzor, said on Wednesday that the U.S.-based company has signaled its willingness to bring its operations into compliance with Russian law. According to the regulator, Roblox acknowledged shortcomings in moderating in-game content and securing user communications and has reached out to officials to discuss possible changes.
Russian authorities banned Roblox citing allegations that the platform hosted “extremist materials” and promoted “LGBT propaganda.” Officials also claimed that weak moderation systems allowed content that could negatively impact the “spiritual and moral development of children.”
Roskomnadzor stated that Roblox has expressed readiness to remove what it describes as “destructive and dangerous information,” prevent criminal activity, and limit unlawful communication between users. The regulator added that the company had previously failed to respond to official requests.
“If this is not just a statement but a genuine willingness to change its approach to protecting children online, Roskomnadzor is prepared to cooperate with the platform, as it does with any service that complies with Russian legislation,” the agency said.
The ban has triggered strong reactions from Roblox’s estimated 18 million monthly users in Russia, most of whom are children and teenagers. Social media campaigns, online video appeals, and even small protests have emerged, particularly in parts of Siberia. Demonstrators were seen holding signs reading “Hands off Roblox” and “Roblox is a victim of the digital Iron Curtain.”
Roblox confirmed that it is in contact with Roskomnadzor and said it is prepared to temporarily limit communication features and revise its moderation policies to meet Russian legal requirements. However, the company declined to provide a timeline for when access might be restored.
Such cooperation is uncommon among major U.S. technology companies still operating in Russia. Many Western platforms have been blocked or reduced their presence after Moscow tightened control over the internet following its invasion of Ukraine. Roblox, however, has taken similar steps in other countries.
Last year, the platform worked with Turkish authorities after being blocked over concerns related to child safety, pledging to adjust its policies to comply with local regulations.
The Roblox ban comes amid a broader crackdown on foreign technology platforms in Russia. In recent weeks, authorities have blocked or restricted access to several Western services, including WhatsApp, Snapchat, and Apple’s FaceTime, as the Kremlin continues to strengthen control over the digital space.