Children's app and online games: advice for parents and carers
Published 4 June 2015
© Crown copyright 2015
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/buying-features-in-online-games-advice-for-parents-and-carers/childrens-app-and-online-games-advice-for-parents-and-carers
Do you know whether your child spends additional money while playing online and app-based games?
These games may sometimes encourage children to make in-play purchases, including buying items or content needed to continue playing.
After you buy or download a game, your device settings may allow your child to make in-play purchases without entering a password.
Top tips to help you avoid problems
You should be given all the important information – including how to ask questions or complain – before your child starts playing.
Check how the device is set up
Before you let your child use the device, check your purchase settings to prevent them spending money without you knowing and don’t share your password.
Read all about it
Before you or your child download a game, check the description to make sure you’re happy for your child to play. It should tell you about the game’s main characteristics, payment arrangements and who to contact if you have any questions or want to complain.
How much?
Check your bills to see if money has been taken from your account without your knowledge or consent. If it has, get in touch with the game operator or platform provider.
Why is this important?
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has monitored the children’s online and app-based games sector to check whether businesses are complying with their legal obligations.
For more information about the CMA’s work in this sector, see the children’s online games case page.
Contact
For advice, contact Citizens Advice on 03444 111444 (England), 03444 772020 (Wales) or go to the Citizens Advice website.