In a recent ruling, New South Wales betting operator TexBet has been fined for violating state regulations after failing to close a customer’s account and continuing to send gambling advertisements. The fine was issued by Liquor & Gaming New South Wales (NSW), following a complaint filed by the affected customer.
The incident began in May 2022 when a TexBet customer requested the closure of their betting account and opted out of receiving any further gambling-related advertisements. Despite this request, the operator sent four promotional texts and accepted 75 additional bets from the customer. Frustrated by TexBet’s actions, the customer lodged a formal complaint with Liquor & Gaming NSW.
Last week, the case was heard at the Downing Centre Local Court, where TexBet was found guilty of breaching state regulations. This marks the first instance where an online betting agency has been penalized in New South Wales for failing to honor account closure requests and for sending unsolicited direct marketing materials.
Regulator Condemns TexBet’s Actions
Jane Lin, executive director of regulatory operations at Liquor & Gaming NSW, criticized TexBet for neglecting its duty to safeguard players. “By engaging in this behavior, TexBet has broken a law that was put in place to protect vulnerable people who are trying to exclude themselves from gambling,” Lin stated. She emphasized that direct marketing of gambling promotions can increase betting habits and lead to gambling-related harm.
Lin further explained that the laws in place were specifically designed to protect at-risk individuals by making it easy for them to self-exclude and avoid gambling promotions. She added, “TexBet not only broke the law but also put this individual at greater risk by sending them ads and accepting bets after they requested their account to be closed.”
The ruling serves as a strong reminder to online betting operators in NSW to maintain robust systems that prevent direct marketing to individuals who have opted out.
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