Kids splashing cash 'chasing losses' on online games like Fortnite are 'gambling'

Children spend hundreds of pounds “chasing their losses” on online game purchases that offer unknown rewards, a report warns.

Buying loot boxes on games such as FIFA and Fortnite should be classed as gambling, the Children’s Commissioner said.

Loot boxes allow players to buy items that might be difficult to earn otherwise, but the contents are usually not known until they have been paid for.

Families are estimated to be losing more than £270million a year to in-app purchases and video game add-ons.

The Children's Commissioner worries kids are spending too much on games like Fortnite (Fortnite)

Kids have told the Children's Commissioner's office they worry they are 'gambling' on the game (Youtube)

In a report, Children’s Commissioner for England Anne Longfield said: “Children have told us they worry they are gambling when they buy loot boxes.

“Some spend hundreds of pounds chasing losses. I want the Government to classify loot boxes in games like FIFA as a form of gambling.

boy enjoying game console at home.Natural light (The gaming industry's main UK body says it already has limits in place for kids (file photo))

Experts say buying loot boxes on games like FIFA should be considered 'gambling' (EA Sports)

"A maximum daily spend limit for children would also be reassuring.”

Dr Jo Twist, boss of UKIE, a trade body for UK gaming, said: “We have put in place extensive tools that allow parents to limit time and money spent already.”