Fortnite Maker Epic Games Hit With Record Fine: Violated Children's Privacy?
Fortnite maker Epic Games was ordered to pay a $520 Million Penalty after it allegedly violated the privacy of minors.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) claims that Epic Games illegally collected children’s personal information and tricked people into making purchases.
“Epic used privacy-invasive default settings and deceptive interfaces that tricked Fortnite users, including teenagers and children,” said FTC Chair Lina Khan in a statement.
The agency has announced a more aggressive stance when it comes to policing the gaming sector.
Epic claims it has since eliminated pay-to-win and pay-to-progress mechanics as well as removal of random item loot boxes.
It also says the company has implemented easier-to-access parental controls as well as a PIN requirement to allow parents to authorize purchases for those under the age of 13.
Jets Assistant Suspended for Violating NFL Gambling Policy
New York Jets wide receivers coach Miles Austin has been suspended for violating the league's gambling policy.
While specifics about the bets Austin placed are unknown, it is not believed wagering was on NFL games.
His attorney claims that Austin placed bets on table games and other “non-NFL professional sports” from a legal account. Mobile gambling on casino games is legal in the state of New Jersey where the Jets play.
According to ESPN, Austin has been under investigation for some time since the league tracked his gambling activity online.
Austin, who played ten seasons in the NFL, plans to appeal the suspension.
Thailand Arrests Over 12,000 for Illegal Betting on FIFA World Cup
Some 12,000 individuals were arrested for illegal betting on this year's FIFA World Cup across the nation of Thailand.
The Royal Thai Police thanked those who provided tips about the activity.
Authorities claim that the amount wagered was reportedly THB1.7 billion (US$48.87 million) while some THB11 billion (US$316.25 million) in wagers may have changed hands.
Deputy National Police Chief General Torsak Sukhwimon intends to continue the crackdown on illegal gambling.
Last week, Thai police also announced the arrests of a popular soap opera star, Thamolphan Phanuchitputthiwong, and her husband for running illegal online porn and gambling websites.
Police seized 14 cars and 44 bank accounts as part of the probe.
- Jagajeet Chiba, Gambling911.com
