Summary
- Betsson has been mandated to refund €500,000 in a case involving an alleged problem gambler.
- Betsson faced accusations for offenses committed between 2009 and 2014.
- Betsson has conveyed its disappointment with the court's ruling but affirmed its dedication to safeguarding consumers.
The Supreme Court of Sweden has mandated that Betsson reimburse a customer identified as a problem gambler. The refund amounts to €500,000, which is approximately SEK 5,000,000, as reported by several Swedish media outlets covering the case.
Supreme Court sides with gambler who is due €500K in payback
Per, a 51-year-old gambler from Örebro, expressed his relief and gratitude to media outlet SVT following a Supreme Court decision. The court found that Betsson had data indicating that Per was experiencing gambling-related issues but failed to act. A translated statement confirmed, The Supreme Court concluded that the gambling company had access to data showing the player had serious gambling problems. Per’s legal representative, Jörgen Hettne, agreed with the court's decision, highlighting that it clearly demonstrated a violation. The court also ruled that Betsson must cover the legal expenses of around SEK718,750 or €64,500. Per gambled on Betsson's online casino between 2009 and 2014, prior to Sweden's regulated gambling market launch on January 1, 2019. During 2012 to 2014, Per was classified as a VIP player until he chose to exclude himself, having lost €527,395 in total. The Supreme Court highlighted that Betsson was aware of Per's gambling habits and utilized the data to offer him targeted marketing, such as bonuses and promotions, encouraging continued play. Hettne praised the decision as a step forward in enhancing consumer protection in Sweden, aiming to provide a safer environment for players. This ruling followed Betsson’s unsuccessful appeal against a previous decision by the Patent and Market Court of Appeal.
Committed to upholding rigorous RG standards
Betsson CEO Pontus Lindwall expressed disappointment over the recent Supreme Court decision. However, he acknowledged that these circumstances are very specific and do not anticipate any wider financial impact. Lindwall emphasized Betsson's commitment to rigorous responsible gaming standards, ensuring that individuals with gambling issues are not permitted to use its products.
