The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is taking action to ensure justice for Fortnite players who fell victim to deceptive practices by Epic Games. In a settlement reached in March 2023, Epic Games was accused of employing unethical strategies to coax players into making unintended in-game purchases, particularly targeting players of all age groups. This move by the FTC aims to compensate those who have been charged for unwanted items in the popular video game.
The allegations against Epic Games, which were first brought to light in December 2022, revolved around the company's use of what are known as "dark patterns." These design tricks were strategically employed to manipulate players into making purchases they had not intended to make. Additionally, Epic Games made it exceptionally easy for minors to accumulate charges without the consent of their parents or guardians. To make matters worse, they locked the accounts of consumers who contested unauthorized charges with their credit card companies.
To rectify these wrongs, a substantial $245 million settlement was reached with Epic Games. This money is now being allocated to provide refunds to the affected consumers. The FTC has initiated the process of notifying over 37 million individuals via email that they may be eligible for compensation. This notification process is anticipated to take one month to complete, and consumers will have until January 17, 2024, to submit their claims.
Detailed information regarding how to file a claim can be accessed at www.ftc.gov/Fortnite. For any queries or concerns related to the claims process, consumers can contact the administrator via phone at 1-833-915-0880 or by email at admin@fortniterefund.com.
The FTC's commitment to consumer protection is further reflected in its interactive dashboards, which provide a state-by-state breakdown of refunds in cases similar to the one involving Epic Games. In 2022, the FTC's actions led to the recovery of over $392 million in refunds for consumers across the United States.
The Federal Trade Commission tirelessly endeavors to uphold fair competition, protect consumers, and educate them about their rights. For more information on consumer-related topics, please visit consumer.ftc.gov. If you come across instances of fraud, scams, or unethical business practices, don't hesitate to report them at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Stay updated on the latest news and alerts from the FTC by following them on social media and reading their consumer alerts and business blog.
In conclusion, the FTC's announcement regarding the claims process for Fortnite players is a significant step toward rectifying the harm caused by deceptive practices in the gaming industry, reinforcing the importance of consumer protection in the digital age.
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