Two layers of protection
| Setting | Effect | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Ask to Buy | Downloads and purchases must be approved by a parent. | Settings > Family > [child's name] > Ask to Buy |
| Block In-App Purchases | Purchases within apps are completely blocked. | Child's Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > App Store Purchases |
Menu names may differ slightly depending on the iOS version. You can find the current instructions in the linked Apple Support articles.
Step by step
1. Turn on Ask to Buy
On your iPhone, open “Settings > Family”, tap your child and turn on “Ask to Buy”. Depending on the country, it is already on for children.
2. Open your child's Screen Time
Under “Settings > Family > [child's name] > Screen Time”.
3. Turn on restrictions
Open “Content & Privacy Restrictions” and turn them on.
4. Block In-App Purchases
Choose “App Store Purchases” or “iTunes & App Store Purchases” and set “In-App Purchases” to “Don't Allow”.
5. Check the payment method
Check whether credit or a payment method is on file in your child's account.
How games tempt kids into buying
- Fantasy currencies such as gems or coins disguise real prices.
- Limited-time offers create pressure.
- Loot boxes work much like gambling.
- Progress is artificially slowed down until you pay.
- Friends or leaderboards increase social pressure.
Explain these mechanisms to your child. Kids who know them are less easily persuaded. Kydly's media literacy section has its own child-friendly topic on this.
What if something was bought anyway?
You can report unwanted purchases to Apple and request a refund. Apple decides whether to refund. Use the opportunity for a calm conversation rather than punishment – your child will learn more that way.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ask to Buy enough on its own?
Ask to Buy requires your approval for purchases and downloads. If you want to rule out In-App Purchases entirely, also block them via Screen Time.
Can Kydly prevent In-App Purchases?
Kydly can restrict purchases and app installations via Apple's interfaces. Approved installations continue to go through Apple's Ask to Buy. Kydly cannot intercept every App Store purchase.
How do I get money back for an unwanted purchase?
You can request a refund from Apple. Apple makes the decision.
Get to know Kydly
Try Kydly first with sample data in the demo, or download the app. The basic features for one parent and the first child are free.
Sources and further information
This guide is published by the provider of the Kydly app. It does not replace individual legal, medical or educational advice. Information about Kydly describes the app as of the date stated; the Privacy Policy, the Terms of Use and the terms Apple displays before purchase are binding. Legal documents (privacy policy, terms of use, legal notice) are available in German and English.