In-app purchases can be a tough space to navigate for younger internet users
As online gaming grows in popularity, children are increasingly spending time on apps that encourage in-app purchases, especially during school holidays. While these purchases can enhance the gaming experience, they aren’t without risk.
Many online games operate on a ‘free-to-play’ model, promising an engaging experience with no upfront cost. However, as children progress in these games, they are often tempted to make in-app purchases to unlock extra benefits and progress faster. These transactions often involve virtual currencies like gems or stars, which must be purchased with real money. This can lead young players to lose track of the financial implications of their gaming.
In-app purchases are designed to be seamless, making it difficult for children and sometimes even adults, to resist spending. The excitement of the game, coupled with enticing offers and virtual rewards, can make it easy to overlook the financial consequences. More importantly, these purchases also provide a potential entry point for cyber criminals to exploit personal information.
Consumer spending on app stores is expected to reach around R3 trillion this year, with in-app purchases forming a significant portion of that revenue.
Parents should be aware that cyber criminals may also use online gaming as a platform to access data, which can compromise both the child’s and parents’ personal information. Whatever screen limits you decide on, kids should not be left unsupervised online.
Inside threats
Cyber criminals often create fake in-app offers that appear enticing to users. When clicked, these offers can redirect users to fraudulent websites where personal details, including payment information, are collected. This data is then used for identity theft.
Fraudulent apps masquerading as legitimate games may collect personal information through hidden malware. These malicious apps often come with fake reviews and ratings to make them appear credible. Parents should exercise caution when downloading new games, ensuring that apps are from reputable developers.
During in-app purchases, users are often prompted to enter payment information. If these payment systems are not adequately secured, cyber criminals can intercept the details which are later used for fraudulent purchases elsewhere.
Parents can control in-app purchases by disabling them through device settings. For example:
On iOS devices, navigate to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions to block in-app purchases. On Android devices, use the ‘Purchase Approvals’ feature in Google Play to manage and approve transactions.
Monitor subscriptions regularly. Keeping track of subscriptions helps parents spot any unexpected or unauthorised charges. Security tools like parental control apps allow parents to manage in-app purchases, block inappropriate content and protect children from threats on their devices. Security solutions can also help secure digital activities by removing metadata from shared images, reducing the risk of personal data being exposed.
If a child makes an unauthorised purchase, parents should first contact Apple or Google to request a refund. Both platforms offer dedicated support for reversing such transactions. In some cases, the app developer may also need to be contacted to assist with the process.
Text | Carey van Vlaanderen
Photography | ImageFlow
Carey van Vlaanderen is CEO of ESET Southern Africa.
For more information, go to eset.com.
