Did you or your child play Fortnite and feel like you were taken advantage of by the game’s practices? You’re not alone! Epic Games, the company behind the wildly popular battle royale game, settled with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for a whopping $245 million, with $126 million specifically designated for consumer refunds. But don’t worry if you haven’t claimed your share yet – there’s still a chance!
This settlement stems from allegations that Epic Games violated consumer protection laws, primarily regarding deceptive in-game purchases and the collection of children’s personal information. If you or your child made unauthorized purchases or experienced other related issues, you might be eligible for a refund. The deadline for claiming your share has passed, but the money is still there. Here’s how to find out if you’re eligible and what steps you can take:
Who is Eligible?
Generally, individuals are eligible for refunds if they were charged for unwanted in-game purchases or if their children’s personal information was collected without proper parental consent. This applies to purchases made between specific dates, which you can find detailed information about on the FTC website (see below).
How to Claim Your Refund (Even Though the Deadline Passed)
While the official claim deadline has closed, there might still be unclaimed funds. Here’s what you can do:
- Visit the FTC Website: The FTC website is the primary resource for information on the Fortnite settlement. Search for “FTC Fortnite Settlement” to find the official page. It will provide details about the settlement, eligibility, and any updated information regarding unclaimed funds or future opportunities.
- Contact Epic Games Directly: While the FTC handles the settlement process, contacting Epic Games’ customer support is also a smart move. They may have internal information regarding the settlement or potential future claim opportunities.
- Monitor News and Updates: Keep an eye on reputable news sources and consumer protection websites for updates on the settlement. Occasionally, there may be further opportunities for claimants to receive funds if the initial distribution doesn’t exhaust the full $126 million.
What to Expect (and What Not To Expect)
The refund amounts vary depending on the amount of money you spent on unwanted purchases or the extent of the violation. Don’t expect to become rich from this – it’s about righting a wrong and helping to hold Epic Games accountable.
Protect Yourself
Be wary of scams. Official communications regarding the settlement will come from the FTC or Epic Games directly. Never provide personal or financial information to unverified sources. Keep an eye on your bank statements and credit card activity to ensure there are no fraudulent charges.
The Bottom Line
Don’t assume you’ve missed your chance. If you believe you or your child were affected by these practices, investigate whether you’re eligible. Check the FTC website and contact Epic Games to see if there’s still a possibility of receiving a refund. It’s worth the effort to potentially claim your share of the $126 million!