Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser has welcomed a ruling from the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) which gives games producers two months to ensure that their games do not breach consumer protection law. This move was spurred by a report at the end of last year that warned parents against games which are free to buy but then require in-game purchases in order to access other features.
The OFT will ensure that game makers publicise in-app purchases before their app is downloaded and will also ensure that in-game payments are not authorised unless the payment account holder has given their express consent.
Nearly 90% of children aged between seven and fifteen have played online games in the past six months, with half paying to play at least once.
Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“This is a welcome decision from the OFT and will hopefully put an end to children and parents being ripped off by in-app purchases. Recent years have seen a growth in games aimed at children that are free to download, but then require further purchases in order to access new features or levels.
“This practice needed to be curbed, and I am confident that this ruling will make games producers sit up and take notice. With the vast majority of our children having played online games in the past six months, it is important that we do not allow them to get caught out by these sales tactics.
“However, despite this ruling it is also important that parents keep a close eye on what their children are doing online. The OFT have also made several useful suggestions on how to stop these games racking up huge credit card or phone bills.”