Key information
On 30 September 2026, the Consumer Protection Cooperation Network initiated coordinated actions against nine video game companies regarding in-game virtual currencies. The measures affect titles such as Minecraft, Valorant, and Clash of Clans, while a parallel action involves Activision Blizzard UK Limited.
The CPC Network maintains that prices should be displayed in real-world currency when players make purchases using virtual funds. According to the network, consumer protection laws ought to apply as if real money were being spent directly.
Industry representatives have raised concerns regarding these measures. Jari-Pekka Kaleva of the European Game Developer Federation commented that it was unfortunate the network did not develop proposals clarifying where financial transactions occur, risking confusion over the nature of virtual items.
Legal analysts note that applying consumer contracts rules to in-game gold extends existing legislation beyond traditional interpretations. Micro-transactions face further upcoming scrutiny from initiatives including the planned Digital Fairness Act.
