Costs concealed within popular children's games, such as Fortnite and Roblox, draw sharp criticism from consumer watchdogs
In a recent warning issued by the European Consumer Centre (EVZ), parents are advised to be vigilant about hidden costs in free children's video games such as Fortnite, Roblox, Brawl Stars, and Clash of Clans. Here's a guide on how parents can protect their children from these potential costs.
Understanding Game Mechanics
Many of these games offer in-game purchases, subscriptions, and passes that can incur costs. For instance, Fortnite offers cosmetic items and battle passes, while Roblox has a vast marketplace where players can spend real money on virtual items. Clash of Clans also offers in-app purchases for resources and premium currency.
Parental Controls
- Restrict In-App Purchases:
- Set a PIN or password for in-app purchases in your device settings to prevent accidental spending.
- If possible, disable in-app purchases entirely to prevent any potential costs.
- Monitor Spending:
- Regularly check your payment statements to identify any unexpected transactions.
- Use parental control apps or services that track and limit spending.
- Educate Children:
- Teach children about the difference between real money and virtual currencies.
- Discuss the risks of overspending and the importance of responsible gaming.
Setting Limits and Boundaries
- Time Limits: Establish time limits for gaming to prevent excessive engagement and potential overspending.
- Discuss Gaming Goals: Encourage children to set goals in games without spending money, focusing on achievements and improvements rather than purchases.
Utilizing Game Features
- Parental Mode in Games: Some games offer parental settings or modes that restrict spending or provide insights into children's activities.
- Free Alternatives: Explore free game modes or alternatives that eliminate the need for purchases, such as Fortnite Creative.
By actively engaging with gaming activity, setting clear boundaries, and using parental controls, parents can effectively protect their children from hidden costs in video games. Parents are also advised to store payment data carefully, especially on their child's device, and consider setting up a third-party blocking at the mobile network provider to prevent unwanted costs.
Alexander Wahl from EVZ emphasized the importance of this matter, stating that parents should be aware of the potential hidden costs in these popular games and take steps to protect their children. By following these guidelines, parents can ensure a safe and enjoyable gaming experience for their children.
[1] Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/emilypratt/2021/05/14/fortnite-creative-mode-is-a-big-success-and-could-be-a-big-part-of-epics-future/?sh=6a9d17a07c6d
- Recognizing the significance of personal-finance management for the entire family, it would be beneficial for parents to also investigate research and development in financial technology (fintech) that could aid them in monitoring and managing their children's online spending, particularly in games like Fortnite, Roblox, Brawl Stars, and Clash of Clans.
- In a bid to harmonize personal-finance awareness and gaming, parents can incorporate educational discussions about the value of money into their family's lifestyle, including in-game costs, with the aim of teaching their kids about the importance of budgeting and responsible spending.
- To further advance the understanding of technology and its impact on various aspects of life, researchers can engage in additional research and development, focusing on producing gadgets and apps that combine gaming, finance, and education, thereby encouraging conscious spending among young players.
