‘Fortnite’ maker Epic can’t dodge suit over kids running up bills

The complaint alleges Fortnite doesn’t allow refunds if minor players change their minds and doesn’t provide parent control mechanisms. — Dreamstime/TNS

Epic Games Inc failed to beat back claims that it misled minors into spending exorbitantly on non-refundable in-app purchases in its popular Fortnite game without parental consent.

The proposed class-action lawsuit adequately alleges that Epic harms consumers by engaging in unfair and fraudulent practices that misinform minors, “thereby inducing them to make frequent in-app purchases”, US District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled on Sept 3.