Requests information from Federal Trade Commission on industry practices
 
WASHINGTON, D.C. –Congressman Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a senior member and former chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee’s Communications, Technology and the Internet Subcommittee, today sent a letter to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requesting more information about possible consumer protection issues related to “in-app” purchases reported today by The Washington Post.
 
“I am disturbed by news that in-app purchases may be taking advantage of children’s lack of understanding when it comes to money and what it means to ‘buy’ an imaginary game piece on the Web.  Companies shouldn’t be able to use Smurfs and snowflakes and zoos as online ATMs pulling money from the pockets of unsuspecting parents.  The use of mobile apps will continue to escalate, which is why it is critical that more is done now to examine these practices. I will continue to closely monitor this issue and look forward to the FTC's response.”
 
A full copy of the letter can be found HERE .