Iraq Bans Roblox Over Child Safety and Cultural Concerns

Iraq has officially banned the popular online game Roblox, citing risks to children’s safety, social behavior, and family values.

Roblox faces a nationwide ban in Iraq due to safety concerns, cultural values, and digital addiction risks, officials confirm

According to local media outlet Shafaq, the Ministry of Communications announced the decision following a ruling by the Federal Supreme Court. The ministry explained that a detailed review concluded Roblox poses “security, social, and behavioral risks.” Officials highlighted that the game allows "unmonitored interactions," which could expose minors to exploitation, cyberblackmail, or inappropriate content that "clashes with Iraqi traditions."

The ministry also pointed to fake websites imitating Roblox platforms, which have been used to steal personal data. On top of that, in‑game purchases were flagged as a financial burden for families, while excessive playtime was linked to digital addiction and social isolation among children.

The ministry is also monitoring other apps and games that “violate moral principles or endanger users,” and promise to work with other authorities to enforce such measures.

This move didn’t come out of nowhere. Back in August, Iraq’s Strategic Center for Human Rights urged a nationwide ban, warning that Roblox exposes children and teenagers to harmful content, including sexual material. The group cited global figures showing Roblox has more than 85 million daily users, with around 40% under the age of 13.

Iraq now joins a growing list of countries restricting Roblox. Algeria, Qatar, Oman, and Jordan have already banned the game, while Kuwait and Indonesia are reportedly considering similar actions.

In response, Roblox issued a strong statement defending its platform. The company emphasized that safety has always been a top priority, and it works continuously to create what it calls a “positive and civil environment” for players worldwide. Roblox also pointed out that it has already taken proactive measures in the Middle East, such as disabling in-game chat and other communication features in Arabic-speaking countries. This, the company argues, makes the Iraqi government’s claims of misuse "inaccurate."

According to the company, the decision appears to be based on an outdated understanding of the platform, one that doesn’t reflect Roblox’s ongoing collaborations with regional authorities to strengthen protections for younger users.

UPDATE: Added Roblox statement.