How to Stop Kids Making In-Game Purchases: iPhone, Android and Console Settings
Free games can get expensive. Here's how to block unapproved in-app purchases on iPhone, Android and consoles, plus family rules for game money.
Summary
Many children's games are free to download but built to sell virtual currency, outfits and loot boxes. This article shows the settings that block unapproved purchases on iPhone, Android and consoles, what to do if a purchase has already happened, and how to set a family gaming budget.
Key takeaways
- Don't keep a card on an account your child uses without purchase approval.
- iPhone: turn on Ask to Buy through Family Sharing. Android: set purchase approvals in Google Family Link.
- Consoles and games like Roblox have their own parental controls and spending limits.
- A clear monthly gaming budget works better than a total ban.
The short answer
Many "free" children's games are really built to sell: virtual currency, outfits, season passes and random prize boxes. A child can spend hundreds of ringgit in minutes if a card is saved on the account. The fix has two layers: settings that need your approval for every purchase, and clear rules for game money.
Why it happens so easily
- Virtual currency hides the value. 800 Robux or V-Bucks doesn't feel like real money.
- Saved cards. When a parent's card is already on the account, one tap is enough to buy.
- Peer pressure and limited-time offers. "Today only!" and friends who all have the new outfit.
iPhone and iPad settings
Set up Family Sharing and create a child Apple Account for your child. Then turn on Ask to Buy: whenever your child tries to buy or download something, you get a request on your phone to approve or decline. In Screen Time, you can also block in-app purchases completely.
Android settings
Use Google Family Link to manage your child's Google account. Set Google Play purchases to need parent approval. In the Play Store app on any shared device, also turn on the setting that requires authentication for every purchase.
Consoles and games
Nintendo Switch, Xbox and PlayStation each have parental controls with spending limits, usually managed through a phone app or family account. Games like Roblox also have their own parental controls, including monthly spending limits. Check every platform your child uses, because phone settings don't cover consoles.
Family rules for game money
- A fixed budget: for example, one gift card a month. When it's gone, wait until next month.
- Ask first: no purchases without asking, even with their own money.
- Understand what's being bought: explain how many ringgit something really costs in virtual currency.
- Avoid random prize boxes for young children.
If a purchase already happened
Request a refund as soon as possible through Apple or Google Play and explain a child made the purchase. Approval isn't guaranteed, but quick requests stand a better chance. Then turn on the settings above so it doesn't happen again, and talk calmly with your child. Often they didn't realise it was real money.
The full guide
Games, Gaming Platforms and In-App Spending by Syaifudin Ramzan is a parent's guide to Roblox, Fortnite, Minecraft, Nintendo Switch, Xbox and PlayStation: step-by-step settings, spending, strangers in games, and family rules.
Closing
Games can be healthy fun. With the right settings and a clear budget, your child can play, and you won't get a shock from next month's card statement.
FAQ
My child already bought something without permission. Can I get a refund?
Sometimes. Apple and Google Play both have refund request processes for accidental purchases. Request one as soon as possible and explain a child made the purchase. Approval isn't guaranteed.
Should I give my child money for games?
Many families choose a small fixed budget, such as one gift card a month. When it's gone, wait until next month. It teaches children what money is worth.
What are loot boxes and why do parents worry?
Loot boxes are virtual 'prize boxes' with random contents. Children pay without knowing what they'll get, and many experts worry they resemble gambling. Avoid games that rely on them for young children.
KopiBuku Editorial
Written for readers who want to grow gently, honestly and practically.
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