The Federal Trade Commission begins distributing refunds to Epic Games users as part of a settlement

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has begun disbursing refunds to individuals who were affected by what it describes as manipulative design strategies by Epic Games, which resulted in unintentional transactions.

According to the FTC, more than $72 million will be issued in refunds, with each payout averaging approximately $114.

Initially, the FTC is distributing 629,344 refunds, with half being issued as checks and the remainder via PayPal. Further payments are to follow at a later date.

This initiative arises from a December 2022 agreement, where Epic agreed to pay over $500 million to resolve the FTC's allegations.

The settlement included $275 million for infringing upon the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act and $245 million for employing design tactics intended to mislead players into accidental purchases.

In September 2023, the FTC began informing more than 37 million consumers about their eligibility for refunds.