Consumer Protection Concerns in European Video Game Industry

A complaint has been filed by a group representing European consumer protection organizations with the European Commission regarding the use and marketing of in-game digital currencies by the video game industry. The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) and 22 member organizations from 17 countries have urged the European Commission and the European Network of Consumer Authorities (CPC-Network) to take stricter action against video game companies that exploit consumer spending through in-game currencies. Concerns have been raised about the legal ambiguity surrounding in-game currencies, which are used as both digital content and payment methods. The report highlighted issues such as unclear pricing in real money, potential consumer confusion, and the impact on economic behavior. The organizations have called for enhanced enforcement and clearer regulations to address these challenges in the gaming industry.