How to Prevent In-App Purchases on Xiaomi Phone (For Kids)

In-app purchases in games and apps can add up quickly. Here's how to block them on Xiaomi phones with a Google account.

Method 1 – Require Authentication for Every Purchase (Most Important)

1. Open Google Play app.
2. Tap Profile icon → Settings → Authentication → Require authentication for purchases.
3. Select For all purchases through Google Play on this device.
4. This means every purchase requires your fingerprint, PIN, or Google account password — kids cannot buy without your approval.

Method 2 – Google Family Link Purchase Approval

If using Family Link:
1. In the Family Link parent app → select child → Controls → Purchase approvals.
2. Set to All content → requires your explicit approval for every purchase attempt.
3. You receive a notification on your phone when a purchase is requested.

Method 3 – Remove Payment Method from Google Account

If you don't want to risk any accidental purchases:
1. Go to pay.google.com on a browser.
2. Remove all credit cards and payment methods linked to the account.
3. Without a payment method, purchases simply cannot go through.

⚠️ This also prevents legitimate purchases — add payment methods back when needed.

Method 4 – Disable In-App Purchases Per App

Some games have a dedicated setting:
1. Open the game → Settings → In-App Purchases → Disable or set a purchase PIN.
2. This varies by game — check the game's own settings menu.

Method 5 – Use a Separate Child Google Account

The safest long-term approach:
1. Create a child Google account via Family Link.
2. Child's Google account has no payment method attached by default.
3. All purchases require parent approval via Family Link — zero accidental spending possible.

What About Xiaomi / Mi Store Purchases?

For Mi Store purchases:
1. Settings → Mi Account → Security → Mi Pay / Purchase settings.
2. Require fingerprint or PIN for any Mi Store transaction.

Signs Your Child Made an Unauthorized Purchase

• Unexpected Google Play receipt in your email.
• Unknown charges on credit card linked to Google account.
• New in-game items / premium content appearing without your knowledge.

Steps after unauthorized purchase:
1. Google Play → Profile → Payments & subscriptions → Budget & history.
2. If within 48 hours, request a refund: Google Play → Help → Request a refund.

Pro Tips

• Enable Google Play purchase notification emails to be alerted of every transaction immediately.
• Many free-to-play mobile games specifically target children with tempting in-app purchases — restricting these games entirely may be the cleanest solution.