A schoolteacher in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district recently filed a complaint of Rs 3.2 lakh cyber fraud, only to find out that her 12-year-old-son had bought ‘weapons’ for an online battle game. This is not one off case, there have been such cases earlier in India as well as in many other parts of the world where smartphone users have lost money in in-app purchases. But thankfully, in India we have two-factor authentication for all online transactions, except subscription based and those made on international websites. For the latter too, you need to authorise due permissions like entering OTP or UPI code.
However, there may be times that your child uses your phone and may end up making in-app purchases unknowingly. But there’s a way to stop prevent such accidental purchases on your device from apps and games by turning on authentication. To help prevent accidental or unwanted purchases on your device authentication is required before any purchases, including in-app purchases, are made from any apps available in the Children’s section, even if you usually don’t require one. Here are all the details
What is app authentication and how it works
Authentication means certain information, like a password, must be entered on your device to make a purchase. If needed, you can change or reset your Google Account password. You can set a password or authentication for all app purchases on Google Play Store. This authentication also works for in-app purchases.
How authentication works across different devices: What to do and what not
Google Play Store authentication settings also work across devices where you are logged in. Remember, you need to be logged in with the same account in all the devices. However, if you use multiple accounts on your device, repeat the steps below for each account on the device.
Open the Google Play
At the top right, tap the profile icon.
Tap Settings and then Authentication and then Require authentication for purchases.
Choose a setting
The options include: Password or Biometric authentication
Just toggle on the option you want to set. Set this for all purchases made through Google Play on the device
Here too there are three options: 1. For all purchases; 2. Every 30 minute; 3. Never
Set parental controls to prevent accidental purchases
Note: To change authentication settings you will need your Google password. Visit account recovery if you don’t remember your password.
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