Child's In-app Spending: Parental Obligation Less Consistent Than Believed
In the digital age, children's access to popular gaming apps like Fortnite, Brawl Stars, and Clash of Clans can lead to unintended in-app purchases. To safeguard your wallet, follow these steps to prevent such unwanted expenses.
Firstly, enable password or biometric authentication for purchases in the app stores, such as the Apple App Store and Google Play. Both platforms require parental consent mechanisms and password protection before allowing in-app purchases, especially for users under 13 or 16.
Secondly, set spending limits and allowances for your children. Some apps and app stores allow parents to restrict purchase amounts or require explicit approval for any transaction. This feature ensures that you stay in control of your child's gaming expenses.
Thirdly, consider using third-party parental control apps like Qustodio or Kidslox. These tools offer comprehensive monitoring and blocking capabilities, including blocking or limiting access to specific games or apps known for in-app purchases, blocking in-app purchases entirely or requiring parental approval, setting screen time limits, and monitoring app usage.
Fourthly, if you discover unauthorized in-app purchases, lodge a timely objection under German law. Parental consent is legally required for such purchases, and unauthorized payments can often be reversed.
It's essential to note that children under 7 are not legally competent, and parental consent is mandatory for contracts by minors aged 7–18. The legal "pocket money clause" does not protect high or subscription purchases made by minors without consent.
EU regulations also emphasise that prices need to be transparent and shown in real currency, helping parents recognise potential spending consequences upfront.
In summary, German parents should combine store-based parental controls, third-party parental control apps, education about in-app spending, and swift legal action against unauthorized charges to effectively prevent unintended in-app purchases by children in popular gaming apps.
Additionally, avoid using automatic billing via the phone bill (carrier billing) for gaming purchases, and do not store payment data on a child's device for gaming purposes. Using prepaid cards from app stores provides better control over gaming expenses.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a fun and safe gaming experience for your children while keeping your wallet protected.
