From “To Catch a Predator” to Roblox: Chris Hansen Sounds Alarm on Child Safety Risks
By U.S. and Digital Platforms Reporter
Published in an international affairs outlet, March 2026
Two decades after Chris Hansen became a household name confronting suspected online predators on To Catch a Predator, the veteran journalist is once again raising alarms—this time targeting Roblox, one of the world’s largest gaming platforms. In his February 2026 special Dangerous Games: Investigating Roblox and accompanying interviews, Hansen has accused the platform of inadequate protections, allowing predators to exploit young users while the company allegedly looks the other way.
Roblox boasts over 70 million daily active users, with many being minors. Its open-creation model lets users build and share experiences, which Hansen argues creates fertile ground for grooming, harassment, and real-world harm. Working with independent investigator “Schlep”—whose predator-hunting videos led to arrests before Roblox banned him—Hansen has documented cases involving chat manipulation, private servers, and transitions to off-platform contact. He has described the environment as enabling “sickos” to operate with relative ease.
Hansen’s language has been characteristically direct. In podcast appearances, he has called for stronger parental oversight and suggested certain age groups should avoid the platform entirely. He highlights how predators use Robux (in-game currency) or promises of virtual items to build trust, sometimes escalating to dangerous offline encounters. Hansen also criticizes Roblox for what he sees as retaliation against vigilante researchers and insufficient cooperation with law enforcement.
The platform faces multiple legal challenges. Lawsuits from states including Louisiana and Los Angeles County allege Roblox knowingly facilitated exploitation by prioritizing growth over safety. Roblox maintains it invests heavily in moderation, age verification, and reporting tools, and has rolled out updates in 2025. The company emphasizes that it removes violating content and accounts and works with safety experts.
Hansen’s shift to Roblox comes as he also comments on broader issues, including Epstein file releases (noting his own past interest in confronting Epstein). While the topics are separate, his work underscores persistent challenges in policing online spaces where children gather. Platforms like Roblox, Discord, and others have become battlegrounds in the fight against digital exploitation.
Experts agree that no single solution exists. Improved AI moderation, stricter age gates, parental controls, and education all play roles. Hansen stresses that parents must stay informed and engaged. His special includes survivor stories and expert analysis, aiming to raise awareness much like his earlier series did in the mid-2000s.
Whether Hansen’s renewed spotlight will pressure Roblox into faster reforms—or spark meaningful industry-wide changes—remains to be seen. For now, his message is clear: the dangers facing children online are evolving, and vigilance is essential.
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