Overview

• The vzbv identified tactics such as opaque pricing, misleading discount offers and the use of virtual currencies in games to obscure actual costs and encourage in-app spending.
• Developers behind Fortnite, Clash of Clans, Monopoly Go and Subway Surfers have signed formal undertakings to remove these manipulative features after being warned by vzbv.
• Vzbv’s complaint against Roblox Corporation remains in court, accusing the platform of employing dark patterns that drive players to spend more time and money.
• Consumer experts warn that children and teenagers are particularly at risk, as these design tricks exploit their impulsivity and lack of cost awareness.
• Players can protect themselves by activating device-level purchase locks to prevent unintended in-app transactions.