How to prevent kids from making in-app purchases on a mobile game?

In-app purchases (IAPs) are a common feature in many mobile games, allowing players to buy virtual items, currencies, or upgrades using real money. These purchases are attractive to game developers as they can provide a steady revenue stream. However, for parents, they can be a source of worry.

Children, especially younger ones, might not fully grasp the concept of money and may be tempted to make in-app purchases without realizing the financial consequences. Excessive spending on in-app items can lead to financial strain and potential conflict within the family.

It is crucial to protect your children from accidental or unauthorized in-app purchases. Implementing measures to restrict access to these features is essential for safeguarding your child’s well-being and financial security.

Exploring Parental Control Settings

Parental control settings are your allies in ensuring your kids have a safe and controlled gaming experience on their mobile devices. Here’s how to explore and utilize them on iOS and Android:

iOS (Apple Devices):

Screen Time: This feature offers a robust set of controls. Open Settings, then tap Screen Time.
Content & Privacy Restrictions: This section enables you to set limits on app downloads, content allowed within apps, and control privacy settings.
App Limits: Set daily time limits for specific apps, including games.
Purchase Limits: Choose from various options:
- Ask to Buy: Requires your approval for all purchases.
- Don’t Allow Purchases: Completely blocks in-app purchases.
- Set a Spending Limit: Define a maximum amount allowed for purchases within a given period.
Password Protection: Set a passcode for Screen Time, preventing your child from changing the settings.

Android (Google Devices):

Google Play Family Link: This comprehensive app provides parental controls for your child’s Android device. Download and set it up on both your device and your child’s.
App & Game Restrictions: Filter apps based on age, content rating, and specific categories.
Screen Time: Set daily time limits for app usage.
Purchase Limits: You can set a password for purchases on the Play Store or choose to ask for approval for every purchase.
Content Filtering: Block inappropriate content on YouTube and other Google services.

Proactive Steps:

Regularly Review Settings: Update parental control settings as your child grows and their gaming preferences change.
Communicate With Your Child: Have open conversations about responsible gaming and explain the importance of parental controls.
Use Free Parental Control Apps: Explore free options like Google Family Link, Screen Time, or OurPact to enhance your device’s built-in controls.

Important Note: Always consider enabling ‘Ask to Buy’ or similar features on your child’s device to ensure you’re informed and involved in any potential in-app purchases. In addition to free apps, you can also consider mSpy or FlexiSpy for more advanced parental control features.

Leveraging App Store Features and Security Measures

App stores like Google Play and the Apple App Store offer various security features and settings to help you prevent in-app purchases by your kids. Here’s how to make the most of these tools:

Restrict In-App Purchases: Both Google Play and the Apple App Store allow you to restrict in-app purchases at the account level. This means you can disable in-app purchases for all apps on your child’s device, or for specific apps. To do this, follow these steps:
- For Google Play, open the Play Store app, tap on your profile icon, select ‘Settings,’ then ‘Parental Controls.’ From here, you can toggle ‘Require authentication for purchases’ and choose a PIN for purchases. You can also set content restrictions.
- For Apple App Store, on your iOS device, navigate to ‘Settings’ > ‘Screen Time’ > ‘Content & Privacy Restrictions.’ Turn on ‘Content & Privacy Restrictions’ and tap on ‘iTunes & App Store Purchases.’ You can then choose to disable in-app purchases, set a password for purchases, or adjust purchase limits.
Family Sharing: Both app stores have family sharing features that allow you to manage multiple accounts within a family group. With Family Sharing, you can set up content restrictions and control in-app purchases for all members. You can also share app purchases and subscriptions across family members.
Content Ratings: Pay attention to the age ratings assigned to apps in the app stores. This gives you a general indication of the app’s suitability for children. Apps with higher ratings may contain content or features that are not appropriate for younger children.
Choose Apps Carefully: When choosing apps for your kids, look for apps that have limited or no in-app purchases. Many free apps offer a ‘lite’ version with limited features or a paid version with full functionality. Choose the paid version if it eliminates the need for in-app purchases. You can also look for apps specifically designed for children that focus on learning or entertainment without any in-app purchases.

Open Communication and Education

Open communication is key to preventing in-app purchases. Talk to your children about the value of money and the potential consequences of impulsive spending. Engage in conversations that help them understand that real money is used for in-app purchases and that these purchases can add up quickly. Explain that these purchases are not always necessary to enjoy the game.

Set clear expectations about in-app purchases. Agree on a limit for how much they can spend and explain that exceeding this limit will have consequences. Encourage them to think carefully before making purchases and to consider whether they truly need the items they are buying. Help them understand that these purchases are not the same as buying a toy or a treat.

Maintaining Control and Protecting Children

Preventing in-app purchases requires a multi-faceted approach. You’ve learned about:

Enabling Parental Controls: Utilize built-in features on your device and within the app store. These controls can set spending limits and require parental approval for purchases.
Communicating with Your Child: Openly discuss the risks and consequences of in-app purchases, emphasizing the importance of responsible spending.
Setting Clear Rules and Expectations: Establish clear boundaries regarding in-app purchases and ensure your child understands them.
Monitoring and Supervision: Regularly check your child’s device and review their app usage. Stay informed about their gaming habits and any potential spending.

By combining these strategies, you can create a safer and more controlled gaming experience for your child.

For additional resources and information on online safety and responsible technology use, consider visiting: