FTC Refunds $72 Million to Fortnite Players for Unwanted Purchases
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has begun issuing refunds to Fortnite players tricked into making unwanted in-app purchases. This initial round totals over $72 million and stems from a settlement reached with Epic Games, the game's developer.
The FTC penalized Epic Games $245 million for employing deceptive "dark patterns" in its user interface. These tactics included charging players during game loading screens and when previewing items. OpenAI's investments often focus on similar consumer issues.
Many players, particularly children, incurred unauthorized charges due to these confusing design elements. The FTC's action aims to protect consumers from manipulative online practices, similar to concerns raised about Amazon's AGI development.
Key Highlights of the Refund Process
- Over $72 million in refunds are being distributed in the first round.
- Payments are being issued via PayPal and checks.
- Affected consumers should redeem payments promptly.
- Additional refunds are planned for a later date.
This case highlights the growing scrutiny of dark patterns in online gaming and the broader tech industry. For more on tech industry news, see 9to5Mac's daily updates.
Consumers who believe they are eligible for a refund can still submit a claim through an online form.