More and more people are discovering that so-called
'free' games downloaded to mobile devices can cost a small
fortune. Parents are puzzled when charged hundreds and even
thousands of dollars from a 'free' game only to discover
their child had 'bought' awards in a game in real world
money not virtual currency.
Good news. Help is on the way. In the US Apple has had to refund
$37 million to consumers to settle a lawsuit brought by the Federal
Trade Commission for making it too easy for kids to rack up massive
charges on a mobile applications (app) without parental permission.
Apple made $10 billion last year from its app store. Apple agreed
to modify its practices.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is warning
app providers it will strictly enforce existing consumer laws which
protect people from ripoffs and scams. It will also bring in new
guidelines to cover the growing app industry.
