In-game shopping (microtransactions) and loot box (box with random content) are legally controversial areas.
Controversial Topics
- Loot box = gambling?
- Children's access
- Spending without family knowledge
- Excessive addiction
- Lack of transparency
Loot Box Discussion
- Belgium, Netherlands: gambling counts → prohibited
- England: child protection law
- USA: no federal regulation, states differ
- Turkey: no clear regulation yet
Gambling Act Applicability
- 5237/m.228: Gambling crime
- The "element of luck + money + gain" trio
- Loot box meets these criteria (disputable)
Child Protection
- Under 13 = custody permission is required
- Age verification mechanism is weak
- It is common to obtain family credit card information
- Complaint possible → refund
Family Law Rights
- Request a refund for the child's unauthorized expenditure
- Consumer arbitration committee / court
- Supreme Court 13. HD: child transaction is invalid
Transparency
- Loot box possibilities (drop rate) must be disclosed
- There is a suggestion in the EU AI Act
- China: mandatory
Supreme Court 13. HD
13. HD accepts that "refunds must be made if there is no parental permission" for unauthorized in-game spending by children, and that the game company is obliged to take reasonable precautions. → request a refund immediatelyConsumer and gaming law lawyer recommended.