Attorney General Todd Rokita announced on May 7 that he has filed a lawsuit against Roblox Corporation and Discord Incorporated, alleging the companies have not done enough to protect children from online predators. The suit claims both platforms are being used by sex criminals to contact and lure minors.
The case is significant because it addresses ongoing concerns about the safety of children using popular online gaming and messaging services. According to Attorney General Rokita, “These companies, which cater to kids and young individuals, know full well that numerous predatory sex criminals have used these platforms to contact and lure their victims. And yet, they continue promoting themselves as safe for children. That is more than reckless. It’s a clear and ongoing violation of Indiana’s Deceptive Consumer Sales Act and we are working to hold them accountable to protect Hoosier families.”
The lawsuit cites several incidents involving Indiana youth who were allegedly groomed or enticed away from their homes while using Roblox or Discord. One such case involved Hailey Buzbee, a 17-year-old from Fishers who disappeared after interacting with an individual on both platforms for months before her death earlier this year.
Other cases mentioned in the complaint include arrests in Florida, Arizona, and Michigan where adults allegedly targeted minors through these services for sexual exploitation or kidnapping. “This pattern has repeated itself time and time again,” said Rokita. “We cannot stand idly by and allow it to continue.” He also noted that while both companies have recently announced new safety features under public pressure, their effectiveness remains uncertain.
The legal action seeks injunctive relief intended to prevent further harm on these platforms as well as disgorgement of profits gained through what the state alleges was unlawful conduct. The complaint also requests civil penalties up to $5,000 per knowing violation along with reimbursement for investigative costs incurred by the Attorney General’s office.
Hoosiers are encouraged by officials to report any concerning incidents involving these or similar digital platforms directly to the Office of the Indiana Attorney General.
