One day you’re celebrating a life-changing win. The next? Your account is frozen and your money’s locked.
That’s exactly what happened to a Dutch woman who scored over €172,000 on BetCity — a gambling platform operated by BetEnt B.V. — only to find her account abruptly blocked the very next day.
According to a recent ruling, BetCity withheld her winnings based on the suspicion that she shared her account with others — a violation of their terms. But the court didn’t buy it and ordered BetCity to release the funds.
Why This Matters to Gamers
This case isn’t just about one blocked account. It highlights a deeper issue that’s creeping into gaming culture: the blurring line between games and gambling.
If you’ve ever played a game with loot boxes, random drops, or microtransactions, you’ve already seen how the gambling mindset is being normalized. Now imagine these systems being backed by real money, with companies that can lock you out the moment you win big.
Not the First Time for BetCity
BetEnt B.V. — the company behind BetCity — was fined €3 million by the Dutch Gambling Authority in 2023 for failing to meet anti-money laundering standards. The regulator flagged their lack of proper checks on large transactions and suspicious behavior.
And now, in 2025, they’re once again in the spotlight — this time for blocking a massive payout without sufficient proof.
How BetCity Defended It
BetCity claimed the player shared her account, which could be linked to fraud or manipulation. Account sharing is indeed prohibited under most gambling platforms’ terms.
But the court found no concrete evidence that others placed the bets or claimed the win. In short: suspicions aren’t enough when that much money is on the line.
Should Gamers Be Worried?
If you’ve ever used a mobile gambling app — whether for sports betting, slots, or casino-style games — this is your wake-up call. Even legally licensed platforms can take drastic action without warning. Winnings can be held or lost, and users can be cut off with limited recourse.
Gamers transitioning into real-money apps or being drawn in by flashy ads on Twitch, YouTube, or TikTok should tread carefully. The risks go beyond losing a bet — you could lose access to your entire account.
Final Thoughts
This case shows that even in regulated markets like the Netherlands, player protection isn’t guaranteed. Whether you’re betting real cash or just opening another loot box, it’s time to ask: How much control do you really have once your money leaves your hands?
Disclaimer:
Gambling can be addictive. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling-related issues, it’s important to seek help. Support is available through organizations such as Loket Kansspel (Netherlands) or other local resources. Always gamble responsibly — and know when to walk away.
