Epic Games has strengthened parental controls against children's purchases in Fortnite.
Epic Games Strengthens Parental Controls Against Children's Purchases in Fortnite
Epic Games has notified users about significant changes to the Fortnite ecosystem. The updates affect two key aspects simultaneously: the game's economic model and parental control tools.
Players now have expanded options for using V-Bucks. Previously, the in-game currency was used primarily in the official item shop and for purchasing the Battle Pass. According to the new rules, V-Bucks can now be spent on content in games created by third-party developers within Fortnite's Creative mode. This decision integrates user-generated content into the project's economic system and opens up new opportunities for creators of user-made maps and modes.
Alongside the expansion of payment functions, Epic Games has implemented additional protective measures for underage players. A new setting, "Allow Random Paid Items," has been added to the system. It gives parents and guardians the ability to block V-Buck spending on content related to loot box mechanics—that is, purchases with random rewards.
Furthermore, any attempt to purchase V-Bucks through Epic Games services will now require a parental control PIN code. This measure is designed to prevent unintentional or unauthorized purchases.
All updated settings are available in the "Parental Controls" section after logging into the child's account. For a detailed review of the new rules for making purchases on islands created by third-party authors, the company recommends consulting the updated FAQ section.