How to Handle Kids Who Want to Make In-App Purchases?

It is natural for children to be interested in game purchases. Gacha mechanics, skins, and limited characters — game monetization systems are carefully designed to attract not just children, but adults as well.

Something to know first: according to a 2022 survey by Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency, reports of "children making large in-app purchases" have been increasing in online game disputes. Accidental charges (unintended purchases) when a parent's credit card information is stored on the device are also common.

Technical measures: ① Set up "Parental Controls" on the device to restrict in-app purchases ② Limit payment methods to "prepaid cards only" to set a spending cap ③ Require password entry for any purchase.

Using it as an educational opportunity: Ask together "Why do you want to spend money?" "How often will you use that character?" "Will you still be playing this game next month?" Rather than making spending absolutely forbidden, developing the judgment to "spend on things of real value" is more important in the long run. Allowing children to make decisions within their allowance can also be a valuable experience.