7. Difficulties in obtaining refunds of minors' unauthorized online spending

Social influence index: 89.4

The stay-at-home economy in China has been further bolstered under COVID-19, especially as more youngsters started to play online games and watch live-streaming shows. However, a problem occurs that many of them tend to spend money for virtual stuff without their parents' consent, and they are often caught spending a lot.

In response, China's Supreme People's Court in May published a guideline on handling civil cases, entitling minors' guardians to seek refunds if their children spend an unusually large amount of money in online games and live-streaming platforms. Yet, the right is often difficult to exercise.

Public opinion holds that a refunding mechanism on minor's unauthorized online spending should be established to improve the efficiency of dispute settlement. It also suggests guardians to take their responsibility to set good examples for the younger generation.