For many young people, online gaming platforms such as Roblox and Fortnite have become central to their daily lives, serving as social spaces and creative outlets. However, concerns are growing about the risks these environments pose to children. Beasley Allen, a law firm known for its work in video game addiction litigation, is expanding its efforts to address child exploitation within these gaming platforms.
The firm highlights that certain features of popular games can make children vulnerable to predatory behavior. According to Beasley Allen, "Open chat systems that allow strangers to contact minors directly," along with "private messaging that bypasses parental oversight" and "anonymity of avatars, which shields predators from accountability," are among the aspects exploited by predators.
Beasley Allen also draws attention to game design elements that may contribute both to addictive behaviors and increased risk of exploitation. The firm states: "Reward systems that encourage prolonged play," "ingame purchases that create dependency," and "social mechanics that blur the line between safe play and unsafe contact" are all factors keeping children engaged for extended periods, thereby raising their exposure to potential harm.
"Our attorneys are committed to holding gaming companies accountable — not only for the harm caused by predatory gaming practices, but also for the broader issue of video game addiction," the statement reads.
The law firm encourages families who believe their children have been harmed by online gaming platforms to reach out for support. "Children deserve safe spaces to play, learn, and connect. At Beasley Allen, we are proud to stand with families in the fight against both predatory gaming exploitation and video game addiction."
Beasley Allen continues its advocacy by investigating how manipulative design features keep young users online longer than intended and examining ways these same mechanisms can be used by predators within digital environments.