5 things the BBB wants you to know about “Pokemon Go”

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ) – It’s the nation-wide, overnight blockbuster app of the year.  Pokemon Go has been downloaded millions of times in its first week, and while there is plenty of fun to be had, the Better Business Bureau is warning people that “catching them all,” may need to come with some caution.

Here are five recommendations the Better Business Bureau says players should keep in mind:

1. Expenses: It’s possible to play completely cost-free by winning “PokeCoins” (the app’s currency) through gameplay, but you can also purchase the coins through an in-app purchase. The longer you play, the more spending money you need to store and “train” your gathered characters. The app also requires constant GPS access, and it uses a lot of data. After playing for hours every day, consumers with limited data plans and no access to local free wifi may find themselves with a hefty bill at the end of the month.
2. Privacy: In order to play the game, users must allow the app to access other applications, such as maps and camera. Many users sign in with a Google account, and that has caused some concerns about privacy. The Android version of the game only accesses limited data (such as the user’s email address), but the iOS version for the iPhone appeared to access all Google data. Niantic, the game’s maker, says no personal information has been accessed, and has issued a bug fix update to correct the problem.
   

   “Pokémon GO only accesses basic Google profile information (specifically, your User ID and email address) and no other Google account information is or has been accessed or collected.” Announced Niantic.

   Users can create an account through the app itself rather than using an email address to access the game, if they remain worried about the security of their Google account.

3. Malware: So far, the app is only available in the U.S., Australia and New Zealand, which has given cybercriminals an opportunity to capitalize on the demand. A malware version of the game has been found online; although no known infections have been reported. Users should only download the app through official app stores, not third-party sites.
4. Safety: Players should use the same safety precautions while playing the game that they would in any other outdoor setting, including caution in strange locations. A Missouri police department reported robbers using a secluded “PokeStop” location to rob unsuspecting game players. Players should be cautious as pedestrians and obey all traffic laws, and drivers should be on the lookout for people who may be distracted by the game. The app also drains phone batteries, so users should be careful not to get stranded far from home.
   

   Other health concerns include heat stroke/heat exhaustion, dehydration, and other injuries common in people who aren’t used to long periods of exercise during the peak of summer.

5. Infringement: PokeStops are supposed to all be on public property (or cooperative private sites), but some homeowners report that players have appeared on their property (perhaps mistaking it as a “PokeStop.”) Players should be respectful of others’ private property.