How to Self-Exclude from Online Casinos
Self-exclusion is a tool that blocks you from accessing online gambling sites for a set period — from six months to permanently. It's designed for people who feel they've lost control of their gambling or who want to take a complete break. If you're reading this and wondering whether you need it, that thought itself is worth taking seriously. Here's how it works across different regions and platforms.
GAMSTOP — UK Self-Exclusion
GAMSTOP is the UK's national self-exclusion scheme. It's free and covers all online gambling companies licensed by the UK Gambling Commission — which is every legal online casino, bookmaker, and bingo site operating in the UK.
How to Register
- Visit gamstop.co.uk
- Fill in the registration form with your name, date of birth, email address, postal address, and phone number.
- Choose your exclusion period: 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years.
- Confirm your registration.
Within 24 hours, all UKGC-licensed operators should block your accounts. You won't be able to log in, deposit, or place bets. Any existing balances will typically be returned to you after a short processing period.
Important Details About GAMSTOP
- It cannot be reversed early. If you choose 6 months, you cannot remove the exclusion before the 6 months have passed. This is by design — it prevents impulsive reversal during moments of weakness.
- After the period ends, it doesn't automatically lift. You must actively request removal after the exclusion period expires. There's a 24-hour cooling-off period before accounts are reactivated.
- It only covers UKGC-licensed sites. Non-UK-licensed offshore operators are not part of GAMSTOP. However, playing at unlicensed sites carries significant risks and no consumer protection.
- It doesn't cover land-based casinos or betting shops. Separate self-exclusion schemes exist for physical gambling venues (SENSE for casinos, the national self-exclusion scheme for betting shops).
Self-Exclusion in Other Countries
| Country | Scheme | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | BetStop (National Self-Exclusion Register) | All licensed online wagering providers |
| Canada (Ontario) | iGO Self-Exclusion | Ontario-licensed online gambling sites |
| Ireland | Individual operator self-exclusion | No central scheme — contact each site directly |
| Sweden | Spelpaus | All Swedish-licensed gambling companies |
| Netherlands | CRUKS | All Dutch-licensed operators |
In countries without a centralised scheme, you'll need to self-exclude with each operator individually. This is more time-consuming but still effective. Contact each casino's customer support and request self-exclusion — they are required to process it.
Additional Blocking Tools
Self-exclusion schemes block you at the account level. For extra protection, consider software that blocks gambling sites at the device or network level:
- Gamban — a paid software subscription that blocks access to thousands of gambling websites and apps across all your devices (PC, Mac, iOS, Android). It works alongside GAMSTOP by adding a second layer of protection. Cost is typically £2–3 per month.
- GamBlock — similar to Gamban. Installs on individual devices and blocks gambling websites. Cannot be easily uninstalled once active.
- Network-level blocking — some ISPs offer parental controls or content filters that can block gambling categories. Less targeted than dedicated tools but free.
- Bank gambling blocks — several UK banks (including Monzo, Starling, Barclays, HSBC, and Lloyds) offer gambling transaction blocks. When enabled, the bank will decline any transactions to gambling merchants. This prevents deposits even if you somehow access a gambling site.
The Multiple-Barrier Approach
The most effective strategy combines several barriers: GAMSTOP (blocks accounts), Gamban or GamBlock (blocks website access), and a bank gambling block (blocks payments). Each barrier is one more step between impulse and action. The more friction you create, the more likely you are to stop and reconsider before gambling.
What Happens to Your Money?
When you self-exclude, any balance remaining in your gambling accounts should be returned to you. The operator is not allowed to keep your funds because of self-exclusion. In practice:
- Pending withdrawals should be processed normally.
- Account balances are typically returned to your last used payment method.
- Bonus balances (funds tied to wagering requirements) are usually forfeited, as they are not real money until requirements are met.
- If you encounter problems getting your money back, contact the relevant regulator (UKGC in the UK, for example) or the gambling dispute resolution service.
After Self-Exclusion: What Next?
Self-exclusion is a practical tool, but it doesn't address the underlying reasons someone developed a gambling problem. During your exclusion period, consider seeking additional support:
- GamCare — free counselling and support for anyone affected by gambling. Available online and by phone (0808 8020 133).
- Gamblers Anonymous — peer support meetings, both in person and online.
- NHS National Gambling Clinic — specialist treatment for gambling disorder, available through referral or self-referral.
- Talk to someone you trust. Breaking the secrecy around gambling is often the most important first step.
When your exclusion period ends, take time to consider whether returning to gambling is the right decision. If you do return, implement the practical limits described in our responsible gambling guide from day one.
18+ | Play Responsibly
Self-exclusion is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you're considering it, that's a positive step. For immediate support, visit BeGambleAware.org or call 0808 8020 133.