Problem Gambler Sues Bulgarian Operator over Self-Exclusion Failure

A Bulgarian man has taken an operator to court over a self-exclusion violation. He is now seeking his money back, as well as BGN 1,000 ($552.1) in damages.

The Man Has Been Struggling with Gambling for Years

The man described himself as a long-term problem gambler who had been playing for over 15 years. According to the lawsuit, his addiction had spiraled out of control, causing him to lose his job, accumulate debts and even consider suicide. By 2022, the man had accumulated a debt of BGN 100,000 ($55,213).

The man eventually sought professional psychological help and started visiting therapy sessions. He eventually learned about the National Revenue Agency’s self-exclusion program and, on January 6, 2023, applied to be excluded from gambling.

The man, however, eventually could not resist the temptation and tried to gamble online. At first, he was unable to access Bulgarian operators and play. Yet, several weeks later, the plaintiff succeeded in accessing one of the biggest local websites.

According to the man’s claims, he proceeded to lose BGN 8,500 ($4,697) over the course of 12 days.

The man eventually contacted the operator and tried to get his money back, claiming that he had been excluded from gambling. However, the operator refused to budge, prompting the lawsuit.

As mentioned, the man is seeking restitution, as well as $552.1 in damages.

The Operator Reignited the Man’s Addiction

Experts investigated the matter and learned that the man had been indeed added to the NRA’s self-exclusion register. However, the gambling operator in question had failed to consult the register, in breach of its responsibilities.

Investigators also learned that the man had wagered over BGN 20,000 during those 12 days. He won approximately BGN 11,500 back, leaving him with losses of around BGN 8,500 ($4,697), as he had claimed.

In the meantime, psychiatrists confirmed that the man was indeed suffering from gambling addiction and exhibited compulsive tendencies when exposed to gambling or provided with access to games of chance.

The man’s wife told the court that his recent gambling spree had undermined his therapy progress. She also pointed out that they caused him to feel deep regret, guilt and powerlessness.

The case is still ongoing.