One problem is that it can be hard for kids to tell if they’re being charged real cash. That’s because many games have virtual money that costs real money to buy. In Roblox, there’s Robux. In Fortnite, players can purchase V-bucks.

Jill Murphy is a technology expert at Common Sense Media. She says the “buy” buttons in apps can be confusing.

“It’s easy to click them without knowing you’re actually spending money,” she explains.

It can be hard for kids to tell if they’re being charged real cash. The reason is that many games use virtual money. But buying it costs real money. In Roblox, there’s Robux. In Fortnite, there’s V-bucks.

Jill Murphy is a technology expert. She works at Common Sense Media. She says the “buy” buttons in apps can be confusing.

“It’s easy to click them without knowing you’re actually spending money,” she says.

How can you make sure you don’t spend a lot of money in gaming apps? Murphy suggests talking with your parents. They can set limits on in-app purchases. Or they can not allow them at all. Parents can also turn on device settings that will let them know if you make a purchase. (For more tips, see “Be App Smart,” above.)

As for Joey, his parents complained to Apple and the makers of Brawl Stars and Stumble Guys. Months later, they were able to get the full $3,800 back.

Joey still plays games on his iPad. But he stays away from the games’ shops. He says other kids should be cautious about in-app purchases too.

“Even if you think you’re just spending imaginary money, ask your parents,” he says. “It could be real money.”

How can you make sure you don’t spend money in games? Murphy says you should talk with your parents. They can set limits on in-app purchases or not allow them. Parents can also turn on device settings. These settings will let them know if you make a purchase. (For more tips, see “Be App Smart,” above.)

Joey’s parents complained to the makers of Brawl Stars and Stumble Guys. Months later, they got the full $3,800 back.

Joey still plays games on his iPad. But he stays away from the games’ shops. He says other kids should be cautious about in-app purchases too.

“Even if you think you’re just spending imaginary money, ask your parents,” he says. “It could be real money.”

1. Based on the article, how can free games still end up costing players a lot of money?

2. What does the word virtual mean? What is an example of virtual money described in the article?

3. Based on the sidebar, “Be App Smart,” what are some steps you might take to keep from spending real money in gaming apps?

1. Based on the article, how can free games still end up costing players a lot of money?

2. What does the word virtual mean? What is an example of virtual money described in the article?

3. Based on the sidebar, “Be App Smart,” what are some steps you might take to keep from spending real money in gaming apps?