EXHIBIT 23.1 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" and to the use of our report dated September 10, 1999, in the Registration Statement filed on Form S-1 and related Prospectus of Precept Business Services, Inc. for the registration of 1,571,389 shares of its common stock. ERNST & YOUNG, LLP Dallas, Texas November 1, 1999