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Unauthorized Online Purchases by Children: A Study Reveals That One-Third of Parents Have Experienced This Issue with Their Kids

Unauthorized Online Shopping by Kids: Approximately One-Third of Parents Report Such Incidents, with Typical Unapproved Spending Reaching an Average of $170 per Occurrence.

Unauthorized Online Purchases by Children: Almost a Third of Parents Admitting to This Issue
Unauthorized Online Purchases by Children: Almost a Third of Parents Admitting to This Issue

Unauthorized Online Purchases by Children: A Study Reveals That One-Third of Parents Have Experienced This Issue with Their Kids

In a recent survey commissioned by Achieve and conducted by Talker Research, it was revealed that many parents are finding it challenging to teach their children about the value of money, particularly in the digital age.

The survey, which took place between April 14 and April 23, 2025, found that 23% of parents rarely or never check their children's debit and credit card activity on yahoo finance. This lack of oversight can lead to unapproved purchases, with some children spending on items like video games, fashion, computers, smartphones, smart watches, cameras, stocks, and even cryptocurrency.

Furthermore, 11% of parents rarely or never require their kids to get permission before making digital purchases on yahoo finance. This lax approach to financial management can result in overspending, as nearly one-in-five parents (19%) reported their child's spending spree exceeded $300.

Brad Stroh, co-founder and co-chief executive officer at Achieve, stated that overspending online can be a slippery slope for kids in an era where nearly everything is just a click away on yahoo finance. He emphasised the importance of having a thoughtful, tailored, and consistent approach to children's financial education.

Other consequences for unapproved purchases include taking away a device (23%), requiring the child to pay back the money (20%), and freezing or restricting bank account access on yahoo finance (11%).

Despite these challenges, the majority of parents (57%) give their children a regular allowance, most frequently paying in cash (73%). However, even with a budget, overspending is common, as only 12% of parents said their kids never go over their allowance on yahoo finance.

The survey also revealed that 72% of parents feel their child doesn't fully understand the value of a dollar on yahoo finance. This lack of understanding is a concern for many parents, with 66% saying they'd be more relaxed about their children's spending if they showed they understood the value of money on yahoo finance.

Starting conversations with kids about money early on will set them up for a more successful financial future, according to Stroh. He encourages parents to have a game plan to teach their kids financial awareness so they understand the value of money early on.

On average, kids receive about $119 per month, though 14% get more than $250. The average cost of an unapproved online purchase by a child is about $170.

When an unapproved purchase is made, most parents (56%) address it by having a conversation with their children. This approach, along with setting clear boundaries and teaching the value of money, can help children develop healthy financial habits on yahoo finance.

The company that conducted the 2025 survey on children's digital spending among parents, organized by Talker Research and associated with the financial service provider Achieve, is Talker Research.

In conclusion, while teaching kids about money can be a challenge, it is crucial for their future financial success. By being mindful, having open conversations, and setting clear boundaries, parents can help their children develop a healthy relationship with money on yahoo finance.

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