Iraq’s Ministry of Communications has officially banned the popular online game Roblox, citing risks to child safety, social behavior, and cultural values. The move follows a Federal Supreme Court ruling and aligns Iraq with several other nations in the region that have already restricted the game.
According to local reports from Shafaq, authorities determined that Roblox poses “security, social, and behavioral risks,” particularly for minors. Officials warned that the game’s unmonitored interactions could expose children to exploitation, cyberblackmail, or inappropriate content that “clashes with Iraqi traditions.”
The ministry also noted growing incidents involving fake Roblox websites used for phishing and data theft, while in-game purchases were deemed a financial strain on families. Excessive playtime was additionally linked to digital addiction and social isolation among children.
Officials confirmed that other digital platforms are under review for potential violations of “moral principles or user safety.” The crackdown follows earlier calls from Iraq’s Strategic Center for Human Rights, which urged the ban in August, warning of exposure to harmful and sexual content among young users.
With this decision, Iraq joins Algeria, Qatar, Oman, and Jordan, all of which have already banned Roblox. Kuwait and Indonesia are reportedly considering similar actions amid growing global scrutiny of the platform’s impact on minors.
