Kids’ apps, fake messages, and subscriptions: what the Sendit case teaches every founder
The FTC alleges the Sendit app collected kids’ data without parental consent, sent fake messages, and pushed weekly subscriptions by promising to reveal anonymous senders. This is the risk pattern for any consumer app aimed at teens: kids’ data, dark nudges, and unclear billing. Fix the pattern with simple steps and saved proof.
What this means for your product and claims
If your app attracts under-13 users, COPPA applies. Get verifiable parental consent before any data collection. Do not simulate “friends” to drive purchases. Spell out renewal cadence and cost before payment. Keep your promises small and true. Save evidence that you do all of this, every week.
A simple play you can run this week
Age screen + safe default: block tracking for under-13 by default.
Parent consent: use a verifiable method; keep a dated record.
No fakes: ban generated “friend” messages, disclose bots.
Pricing clarity: show weekly cadence and total cost before pay.
One-click cancel: confirm with next bill date in email.
Proof habit: weekly export of consent logs, cancel logs, and screenshots.
Owner + review: assign one owner, 90-day review with change log.
What to monitor next quarter
Watch chargebacks, refund requests, and parent complaints. Audit subscription copy monthly. If minors keep showing up, revisit targeting and app store placement. Small fixes compound.
Actionable takeaways
• Get verifiable consent or block collection for under-13.
• Kill fake prompts and make cancel one click.
• Save weekly proof across consent and billing.
Adapt this to your context. If you want a red-flag review of your flows, contact us and we can walk it together.