+34
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has launched an investigation into nine major gaming companies over potential breaches of consumer law regarding in-game purchases and currencies. The probe, part of a broader European effort, focuses on whether players, particularly children, are adequately informed about the real-world costs of in-app spending and if they are being unfairly manipulated. The CCPC aims to ensure transparency and fairness in the online gaming industry.
Nine gaming companies, including the creators of Minecraft, Candy Crush and Clash of Clans, are being investigated by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. The consumer watchdog is looking into whether in-game currencies and purchases are in breach of consumer law.
There are concerns some users, especially children, are unable to understand the real-world cost of in-app purchases. Geoffrey Gray, Commission Member at the CCPC, said they're working to make the online gaming space a safer and more transparent space for all.
"Consumers should be able to enjoy these games without being misled about costs, pressured into making purchases, or left unclear about their rights. "This investigation is focussed on ensuring consumers are given clear information, treated fairly, and properly protected when spending money in games". The CCPC is working alongside authorities across Europe to launch co-ordinated action through the European Commission’s Consumer Protection Cooperation Network.
Among the areas under investigation include, in-game purchases, in-game virtual currencies, users' consumer rights when making purchases, transparency around costs, and the fairness of terms and conditions associated with the online games. The companies under investigation include: Crytek GmbH, InnoGames GmbH, King.com Operations Limited, Mojang AB, Plarium Europe S.à.r.l. , PLR Worldwide Sales Limited, Riot Games Limited, Supercell Oy, and Ubisoft EMEA SAS.
In-Game Purchases Consumer Protection Online Gaming CCPC Investigation Transparency
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News: You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Eamonn Fitzmaurice to be ratified as Galway football manager on WednesdayGalway will ratify Eamonn Fitzmaurice as their new senior football manager at a county board meeting on Wednesday night, with former Meath footballer Seamus Kenny calling the appointment a major coup.
Read more »
Kenny: Fitzmaurice Appointment a Major Coup for GalwayFormer Meath footballer Seamus Kenny hails the potential appointment of Éamonn Fitzmaurice as Galway's senior football manager as a significant achievement, praising his strategic insight and alignment with the county's traditional style.
Read more »
UAE Investigates Flydubai Cockpit Attack as Possible TerrorismThe United Arab Emirates is investigating whether a cockpit attack on a Flydubai flight bound for Tel Aviv was linked to terrorism or premeditation. Israel is also participating in the inquiry after the co-pilot allegedly stabbed the pilot and caused the aircraft to plunge sharply before passengers and crew secured the plane. Flights between Dubai and Israel have been suspended during the investigation.
Read more »
Global Equities Tumble on Bond Sell-off and Rising Borrowing CostsGlobal stock markets declined on Thursday as investors adopted a risk-averse stance due to surging government borrowing costs. A rally in oil prices triggered a sell-off in sovereign bonds, pushing US bond yields to their highest levels since 2002. In Dublin, the Iseq underperformed with major holdings like Bank of Ireland and Glanbia falling significantly. UK markets were dragged down by banks, with NatWest dropping 6.1 percent after reports of a meeting with the finance minister ahead of the Autumn Budget. Meanwhile, energy stocks advanced as crude oil prices rose.
Read more »