TechCrunch Disrupt 2025: Lootlock Cracks Down on Gaming Overspending for Kids

Lootlock Protects Kids from Gaming Overspending, to Showcase at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 San Francisco, CA - October 27-29, 2025 - Lootlock, an innovative app that prevents kids from running up unauthorized gaming bills on their parents' credit cards, has been selected for the prestigious TechCrunch Startup Battlefield 200. Founded by avid gamer and software developer Nick Pompa, Lootlock will be exhibiting at TechCrunch Disrupt in San Francisco this week. According to Pompa, who started gaming at age six, he was motivated to create Lootlock after hearing numerous horror stories from fellow parents about their kids accumulating surprise credit card bills while playing games. "As a dad of two under two, I'm looking forward to sharing my passion for gaming with them when they grow old enough," Pompa said in an interview with TechCrunch. "But I also know how easy it is for kids to get caught up in the excitement of gaming and inadvertently rack up thousands of dollars in fees." The gaming industry has faced criticism from regulatory agencies, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which have warned about design tricks used by game developers to encourage kids to spend more money. Pompa explained that these tactics often involve "clever design, social engineering, and player tracking" to entice children into unlocking fee-incurring game features. Lootlock's solution is a mobile app that allows parents to set limits on their child's gaming expenses and receive real-time notifications when those limits are approached. The app also provides educational resources for kids to learn about responsible gaming habits. The TechCrunch Disrupt conference, which takes place from October 27-29 in San Francisco, will provide Lootlock with a platform to showcase its innovative solution to the gaming industry's problem of overspending by minors. With its selection for the Startup Battlefield 200, Lootlock joins an elite group of startups that have demonstrated exceptional potential and innovation. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Lootlock's technology has significant implications for parents, game developers, and regulators alike. By providing a safe and controlled environment for kids to enjoy games without breaking the bank, Lootlock is poised to make a positive impact on the lives of millions of families worldwide. Background: The issue of gaming overspending by minors has gained increasing attention in recent years, with many parents sharing their own stories of surprise credit card bills. Regulatory agencies have responded by issuing warnings and guidelines for game developers to ensure that their products are designed with responsible spending practices in mind. Current Status: Lootlock is currently exhibiting at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, where it will be showcasing its innovative solution to the problem of gaming overspending by minors. With its selection for the Startup Battlefield 200, Lootlock has demonstrated exceptional potential and innovation in the fintech space. Next Developments: As Lootlock continues to gain traction and attention from investors and regulators alike, it is likely that we will see further developments in the company's technology and partnerships with game developers and financial institutions. With its commitment to providing a safe and controlled environment for kids to enjoy games without breaking the bank, Lootlock is poised to make a lasting impact on the gaming industry and beyond. *Reporting by Techcrunch.*