How to Turn Off In-App Purchases

By Emma Chase Updated 10/10/2024

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If you've ever spotted an extra charge from the App Store on your credit card statement and wondered where it came from, this tip may help. It's become more common for apps to have in-app purchases, even if the app itself is free. Let's learn how to prevent these charges from happening.

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Why You'll Love This Tip:

Prevent accidental or unauthorized in-app purchases when your kids play their favorite game on your phone.
Make in-app purchasing possible but more restricted when you require your Apple ID password or FaceID to authorize purchases.

How to Turn Off In-App Purchases

In-app purchases are becoming the new norm. They make it possible for app developers to make money on free apps. They can also be a pain when you download a free app. Especially if you (or, more likely, your kids) end up inadvertently buying tokens or subscriptions to advance in a game or use the services. Prevent a headache and turn off in-app purchases or require password authorization. To learn more about apps for your iPhone, check out our free Tip of the Day newsletter.

Open Settings.
Tap Screen Time.

Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions.
Tap the switch next to Content & Privacy Restrictions to toggle it on.

Tap iTunes & App Store Purchases. (To allow in-app purchases with a password, skip to step 8.)
Tap In-app Purchases.

Tap Don't Allow.
To allow purchase with password authorization, tap Always Require in the Require Password section.

Turning off in-app purchases is only one way Apple allows you to supervise your children's screen time. Learn more about how to set parental controls for your child for even more in-depth tips. You can also find out how to redeem an Apple Gift card with your Family Sharing group.

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Author Details

Emma Chase

Emma Chase is a freelance writer for iPhone Life. She has her Bachelors degree in Communication from the University of Northern Iowa. Emma has worked in many sectors in her professional career, including the higher education, finance, and nonprofit. Emma lives in small-town Iowa with her husband and two children. When she’s not geeking out over the newest Apple product or wrangling her kids, Emma enjoys a good book, crocheting, and trying new foods.

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