The Federal Trade Commission has won a legal challenge against Google, who have now been ordered to repay $19 million to customers whose children made in-app purchases.
The complaint, which originated back in 2011 when in-app purchases were added to the Android Market, will also see Google change its current billing practices. From here on in customers will have to provide informed consent before every purchase. In fact, Google says they've already made the required changes.
"For millions of American families, smartphones and tablets have become a part of their daily lives," said FTC chairwoman Edith Ramirez. "As more Americans embrace mobile technology, it's vital to remind companies that time-tested consumer protections still apply, including that consumers should not be charged for purchases they did not authorize."
This result for the FTC follows a similar move in January when Apple were told to refund $32.5 million for exactly the same reason. Another challenge against Amazon is currently ongoing.