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EA Sports FC 26 (FC26) is the latest release in EA’s long-running football video game series, formerly known as FIFA. After EA and FIFA ended their partnership, the franchise rebranded in 2023 as “EA Sports FC,” but the gameplay and popularity remain as strong as ever. FC26 builds on this legacy with updated teams, enhanced graphics, and new features that have made it a top choice for young football fans across the world.
Rated PEGI 3, FC26 is considered suitable for all age groups, but its online features and in-game economy introduce complexities that parents should be aware of.
One of the most popular modes is Ultimate Team (FUT), where players build their dream squad using virtual cards representing real-life footballers. These cards can be earned through gameplay or purchased using in-game currency, and this is where safeguarding becomes especially important. As the FC26 in-game economy becomes increasingly sophisticated, offering players more opportunities to spend money within the game, it’s vital that young players and parents are educated about these emerging features, including how they can be manipulated or exploited and the potential risks they present.
FC26 uses two main types of currency: Coins, which are earned through gameplay, and FC Points, which are bought with real money. Coins are used to buy player cards, consumables, and other items on the in-game transfer market, allowing players to build and improve their Ultimate Team without spending real money.
FC Points, on the other hand, are used to purchase packs containing random player cards – a system often compared to loot boxes. These packs may contain high-value players, but the outcome is entirely based on chance, which can encourage repeated spending in pursuit of better rewards.
The FUT Transfer Market is where players buy and sell cards. It functions like a live auction house, with prices fluctuating based on demand, player performance, and community trends. This marketplace is central to the game’s economy and can be highly competitive. Players often engage in trading strategies to earn coins, such as buying undervalued cards and selling them for profit.
However, this system also opens the door to market manipulation, scams, and risky behaviours – especially when players are influenced by social media “leaks” or tempted by third-party coin sellers. For young players, understanding the value of items and the risk of trading is crucial, and parental guidance is key to preventing harm.
One controversial trend currently is the rise of scalping schemes (also known as “pump and dump” scams) on platforms like TikTok and X. Influencers with large followings identify low-cost player cards and quietly buy them in bulk. They then post videos claiming these cards will be upgraded or featured in upcoming events, often using fake graphics or fabricated leaks. Thousands of players rush to buy the card, driving up its price.
Once the hype peaks, the influencer sells their stock at a profit, leaving others with overpriced cards that quickly lose value. This tactic has already targeted certain player cards since the game’s launch, with some cards value dropping by over 90% in just hours after the scam was exposed.
These websites are often run by groups using bots or exploitative methods to generate coins, which they sell for real money, violating EA’s terms of service. To transfer coins, some sites use “comfort trades,” where players hand over account access, risking theft or permanent bans. These platforms target regular players through social media and influencers, offering cheap coins to help them compete in FUT. But even well-meaning purchases can lead to account restrictions, coin wipes, or bans.
New for FC26, EA has responded to these risks by introducing Graduated Transfer Market Access, a system that restricts new accounts from trading until they complete a series of objectives and pass integrity checks. This aims to prevent bots and coin-selling operations from manipulating the market and protect genuine players from unfair trading practices.
While it’s seen initial glitches and bugs that prevent some returning players from getting immediate access, its core purpose is to introduce new players to the game’s mechanics gradually. However, as with every new perimeter, black market operators and scammers continue to find new ways around deterrents such as this.
As a parent, it’s natural to feel concerned about these risks. But there are simple, effective ways to support your child and help them enjoy FC26 safely.
Here are some practical steps you can take to protect your child’s account and personal information:
Set spending limits: You can set spending limits using the Playtime feature in FUT, which allows you to control purchases, pack openings, match time, and overall play duration. This helps manage in-game spending and screen time effectively.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): This adds an extra layer of security to your child’s account. Even if someone gets hold of their password, they won’t be able to log in without a verification code sent to your phone or email.
Check links and websites carefully: If your child is logging into their EA account, make sure the web address starts with www.ea.com or www.easports.com. Fake sites can look convincing but are designed to steal login details.
Talk about “too-good-to-be-true” offers: If your child sees offers for free coins, rare players, or sponsorships online, help them understand that these are often scams.
Use strong, unique passwords: Encourage your child to use a secure password that isn’t shared across other accounts. This helps protect their EA account from being hacked.
Stick to official platforms: Make sure your child only buys games, packs, or upgrades through EA’s official store or console marketplaces. Third-party coin sellers are not only risky – they’re against EA’s rules.
Install antivirus software: If your child plays on a PC, regular malware scans can help prevent viruses from fake downloads or scam websites.
Keep personal information private: Remind your child never to share their password or account details with anyone – even if they claim to be from EA. EA staff will never ask for this information.
FC26 remains the most popular football simulation game on the market with millions of players worldwide, but its popularity also means that it can come with significant risks.
Parental guidance and education are vital to helping young people navigate their online experiences with confidence and safety, empowering them to make informed decisions while playing the games they love.
To support parents, carers, and professionals, Ygam offers free online workshops on video gaming, providing practical information, advice, and guidance.
Visit our training pages to find out more.
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