In-app purchases and parental liability for unauthorized child spending

In-app purchases on mobile devices are categorized into two distinct types of transactions. Standard purchases, such as unlocking levels, game currency, or subscriptions, are processed through official platforms like the Apple App Store or Google Play. In contrast, stakes placed in online casinos are handled directly through the casino's payment page and are not processed via mobile app stores.

Regarding unauthorized spending by minors, the Consumer Advice Center Hamburg states that parents are generally not legally obligated to pay for purchases made by children without their consent. Because children and adolescents have limited legal capacity, contracts require prior or subsequent approval from legal guardians to be valid. If such approval is absent, the financial risk typically falls on the app providers, especially if their services target minors.

To mitigate these risks, experts recommend that parents regularly monitor stored payment methods and implement purchase restrictions. If unauthorized charges occur, parents should contact the app store or service provider immediately to contest the transaction.