Now FTC targets Google, demands $19m in IAP refunds

Google has become the latest company to be targeted by the Federal Trade Commission regarding accidental microtransactions.

With Apple and Amazon having already faced action, Google is now being asked to hand over $19m to refund app buyers whose children have unwittingly paid for in-app purchases.

The amount covers IAPs dating back to 2011 that allegedly violated FTC’s regulations owing to Google’s failure to require passwords or satisfactory authentication prior to the purchase of digital goods.

"For millions of American families, smartphones and tablets have become a part of their daily lives," FTC chairwoman Edith Ramirez said, as reported by GamesIndustry.

"As more Americans embrace mobile technology, it’s vital to remind companies that time-tested consumer protections still apply, including that consumers should not be charged for purchases they did not authorise."