Player Protection Fails: Gambler Loses Big Despite Self-Exclusion
A recent case has brought the implementation of player protection measures in Germany under intense scrutiny. A gambling-addicted individual, despite being registered in the OASIS player exclusion system, was able to continue placing bets with online gambling provider Bet365. The individual lost a five-figure sum, even though the law clearly states that excluded individuals must be barred from all forms of gambling.
The player reportedly self-excluded due to their addiction, hoping to prevent further harm. However, the system failed to protect them. The exclusion was either not recognized during registration or simply ignored. Bet365 allowed the customer to gamble, despite being legally obligated to check the exclusion database and deny access.
To date, the losses have not been reimbursed. The affected individual is now demanding repayment, pursuing both civil action and filing a complaint with the Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), the authority responsible for enforcing the State Treaty on Gambling.
Player Protection: A Mere Facade? The GGL Under Pressure
This case raises fundamental questions about the effectiveness of the protection system. How can an international operator like Bet365 grant access despite a valid OASIS exclusion and then fail to reimburse the resulting losses? If even a central measure like the player exclusion system fails, trust in the entire gambling regulation framework is at risk of eroding.
The GGL was established to monitor compliance with the State Treaty on Gambling and to sanction violations. In the past, it has revoked licenses when providers have breached key regulations. However, there has been no public response to this blatant violation of a core player protection requirement.
Attorney Cocron, representing the affected individual, has announced further action. The focus is not only on reimbursement but also on whether a provider like Bet365 should retain its license if it ignores central protection mechanisms.
Industry Giant Must Respond
Bet365 is one of the world’s largest online gambling providers, operating in numerous countries, including being an official sponsor of the Italian football club SSC Napoli. This raises questions about whether size and market power lead to a more lenient approach to regulatory requirements.
This case is part of a growing number of complaints about providers accepting excluded players, ignoring data protection requests, or evading court rulings. Many are asking: Where is the accountability?
If a market leader like Bet365 ignores OASIS, player protection becomes a farce. It is now up to the GGL to send clear signals in the interest of players, the integrity of the regulatory system, and trust in the legal gambling market.
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