Swedish Court Orders Betsson to Pay Millions to Gambling Addict Exploited by Bonuses

A significant legal victory for gambling addiction victims emerged in Sweden as the Svea Court of Appeal ruled in favor of a man from Uppsala län who sued the Betsson group for exploiting his gambling addiction. The ruling acknowledged that Betsson and its affiliated companies continued to offer promotional bonuses despite knowing about the man’s problematic gambling behavior, leading to substantial losses.

Between 2016 and 2019, the man lost approximately 4.7 million kronor on online gambling platforms operated by Betsson companies. Despite having access to data signaling his gambling issues, the companies persistently sent him bonuses and VIP offers, which the court found to facilitate his harmful gambling habits. This conduct led the court to determine that the gambling agreements were invalid under the circumstances, resulting in Betsson being ordered to refund nearly 5 million kronor and cover the man's legal expenses in both district and appeals courts.

Hovrättsrådet Eva Edwardsson referenced in the case emphasized that the conditions to invalidate the gambling contracts were met, highlighting the legal accountability of gambling operators who disregard the well-being of addicted clients. This ruling marks an important precedent in Swedish consumer protection law, holding gambling providers responsible for enabling addiction through aggressive marketing and promotional incentives.

The ruling against Betsson underscores the growing scrutiny gaming industry operators face regarding ethical practices and addiction prevention measures. As awareness about gambling addiction rises, this court decision reinforces the obligation of gambling companies to refrain from exploiting vulnerable individuals and underlines the potential legal consequences of failing to do so.