Lesson I Learned the Hard Way

This weekend, I learned a lesson that almost cost me $254 and I’m sharing it so other parents, don’t have to learn the same way.

Like everyone, I work hard for every dollar. My children have a PS5 and I usually purchase games with my credit card, so I never thought twice if anything could go wrong

What I didn’t know?
The console was not password-protected for purchases. Last night, I got a notification that $254 has been deducted for a PlayStation Plus subscription.

I was shocked.
I didn’t authorize it.
When I asked my kids, my youngest son calmly said he did it
I asked him if he knew how much it cost… he didn’t.

My money, gone just like that. I immediately contacted PlayStation support. After several conversations, explanations, and plenty of patience, they finally refunded the money. Thankfully, but trust me it wasn’t easy.

That’s when I learned something important:
Always password-protect your console and payment methods.

So please, learn from my mistake:
• Password-protect game consoles and app stores
• Remove saved credit cards if possible
• Set parental controls and spending limits
• Regularly check your bank statements
• Never assume “it can’t happen in my house”

As newcomers and immigrants, many of us are still learning how systems work here, from banking to technology. Mistakes happen. But sharing our experiences helps protect others.
Has this ever happened to you?

#ParentingInCanada #ImmigrantLife
#ParentingLessons #DigitalParenting
#LearnFromMyMistake