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The Federal Trade Commission plans to hold a public workshop later this year to analyze the sale of video game industry's surprise boxes, according to a letter from the agency obtained by The edge. The workshop would bring together the video game industry and consumer advocates to discuss the concerns and possible scope of the controversial practice.
The letter followed a request from Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) last month asking agency officials to take stock of their investigation of the boxes.
In today's letter, FTC President Joe Simons declined to comment on the alleged investigation, but he announced that the agency would open a public forum on the sale of gift boxes. video game industry over the next few months. A preliminary effort might indicate that the regulator wishes to gather the views of the gambling industry and consumer advocates before suing.
"We are currently planning a public workshop on the safest boxes for later this year as a non-police option," said Simons. "A workshop could be a forum for stakeholders from a wide variety of perspectives, including consumer organizations, parent groups and industry members. This could also help to obtain information to guide subsequent consumer awareness activities, which could include a consumer alert. "
It's unclear when the workshop will take place, but Simons said the FTC will continue to study the sale of surprise boxes. "While the video game industry has rapidly evolved, we have remained vigilant about potential consumer protection issues," he said.
Hassan said The edge Today, she appreciates the FTC's efforts to look at the boxes and their impact on the well-being of young players. "A public vault workshop is a step in the right direction, and I encourage the FTC to continue working with consumer rights advocates, parents, gamers and industry members to ensure that significant improvements are made to increase transparency and consumer protection around the coffers. ," she says.
The Entertainment Software Association, which oversees the ESRB, reacted to the announcement made today by saying The edge"As the Federal Trade Commission has already noted, the US video game industry excels in partnering with healthcare providers and consumers by providing reliable video game ratings, comprehensive information, and robust parental control. We look forward to celebrating this work with the FTC. "
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