Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Gala Bingo Voids £1.6M Glitch Payouts as Players Demand Redress

Gala Bingo reported the glitch to the Gambling Commission after refunding ticket fees, issuing £20 bonuses, receiving threats of legal action from outraged players.

Overview

  • A system malfunction during Gala Bingo’s Summer Nights promotion swelled the jackpot from £150 to £1.6 million for about two hours on August 4, crediting prizes to more than 1,100 players.
  • Under its terms and conditions, the operator voided all erroneous winnings, refunded ticket fees and offered affected users £20 in bonuses.
  • Gala Bingo has reported the error to the Gambling Commission and is cooperating with an ongoing probe into its software controls and consumer protections.
  • Many players, including single parents and pensioners, said they had planned to use the now-cancelled funds for rent, medical tests, car payments or pet care.
  • Outraged customers have left negative reviews online and some are exploring legal action over the rescinded payouts.