I got an email from Apple yesterday saying they've strengthened security for in-app purchases because some complained it was too easy for children to run up charges without permission.
The only i-device I have is the Ipod Touch 4th Gen I got as a prize from Woot a few years ago, but was curious to learn more.
"We’ve heard from some customers that it was too easy for their kids to make in-app purchases. As a result, we’ve improved controls for parents so they can better manage their children’s purchases, or restrict them entirely. Additionally, we are offering refunds in certain cases. Our records show that you made some in-app purchases, and if any of these were unauthorized purchases by a minor, you might be eligible for a refund from Apple."
So it got me thinking -- What exactly did I purchase? I looked and then I remembered my son handing me my Ipod a few months back and asking if he could get this "free" app. Turns out, it was an in-app purchase for $9.99. Surely, they wouldn't allow me to dispute that charge, but what the heck!?
I sent in the email as described in their message:
*"Please follow the steps below to submit a refund request:
• Find your in-app purchase records. Check your email for iTunes receipts or use a computer to sign in to your iTunes account and view your Purchase History.
• Use this link to submit your refund request to Apple.
• Provide the requested information and enter “Refund for In-App Purchases made by a minor” in the Details section."*
Within an hour, I got a response and they apologized and reversed the charge. Really? A quick browse on the old interwebs showed that a lot of people were having similar experiences.
I've never been a big fan of Apple in general, but I have to admit that I was blown away by their willingness to reverse a charge based solely on a customer's word.
I got an email from Apple yesterday saying they've strengthened security for in-app purchases because some complained it was too easy for children to run up charges without permission.
The only i-device I have is the Ipod Touch 4th Gen I got as a prize from Woot a few years ago, but was curious to learn more.
"We’ve heard from some customers that it was too easy for their kids to make in-app purchases.
As a result, we’ve improved controls for parents so they can better manage their children’s
purchases, or restrict them entirely. Additionally, we are offering refunds in certain cases.
Our records show that you made some in-app purchases, and if any of these were unauthorized purchases by a minor, you might be eligible for a refund from Apple."
So it got me thinking -- What exactly did I purchase? I looked and then I remembered my son handing me my Ipod a few months back and asking if he could get this "free" app. Turns out, it was an in-app purchase for $9.99. Surely, they wouldn't allow me to dispute that charge, but what the heck!?
I sent in the email as described in their message:
*"Please follow the steps below to submit a refund request:
• Find your in-app purchase records. Check your email for iTunes receipts or use a computer to sign in to your iTunes account and view your Purchase History.
• Use this link to submit your refund request to Apple.
• Provide the requested information and enter “Refund for In-App Purchases made by a minor”
in the Details section."*
Within an hour, I got a response and they apologized and reversed the charge. Really? A quick browse on the old interwebs showed that a lot of people were having similar experiences.
I've never been a big fan of Apple in general, but I have to admit that I was blown away by their willingness to reverse a charge based solely on a customer's word.
Bravo Apple :)
in-app purchase are the modern equivalent of "No way, Mom. I did not call that 900 number 370 times."