Dutch regulator ACM and Rotterdam Court uphold a €1.125M fine against Epic Games for deceptive UX design and predatory monetization practices targeting children in Fortnite.
Case overview
The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) imposed a total fine of €1,125,000 on Epic Games, which was subsequently upheld by the Rotterdam District Court. The regulator established that inside Fortnite Battle Royale, various advertising and UX/UI design choices directly exploited children's vulnerabilities. The Item Shop featured elements of artificial scarcity and aggressive countdown timers that created unfair psychological time pressure to force impulse purchases. Along with the financial penalty, Epic Games was issued a binding administrative order to redesign its monetization mechanics.
Sanctions & remedies
€1,125,000 fine + binding instruction (bindende aanwijzing) for mandatory Item Shop UI overhaul.
Legal basis
Dutch Consumer Protection Law (Unfair Commercial Practices / Enforcement of EU Consumer Directives).
Compliance takeaway
Compliance Lesson: Game developers must avoid artificial urgency triggers and manipulative UX patterns, especially when a product has a massive minor audience. Timer Restrictions: Do not use countdown timers on standard rotating shop items if the item is not truly limited. False scarcity is classified as an unfair commercial practice. Minor Safeguards: Implement strict visual separation for real-money items, introduce mandatory purchase confirmations, an immediate "undo purchase" button, and standard return tokens for players under 18. Visual Neutrality: Avoid aggressive color highlights or predatory interface design layouts intended to push children into non-consensual or accidental spending.