GAMSTOP is a free, online self-exclusion program available to individuals in the United Kingdom who wish to control their gambling activities. It is designed to help people manage their gambling behavior by restricting their access to online gambling sites.
GAMSTOP, operated by The National Online Self-Exclusion Scheme Limited, allows users to voluntarily exclude themselves from all online gambling sites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
Users can register on the official GAMSTOP website by providing personal information such as their name, address, email, and phone number. To ensure comprehensive coverage, it is crucial to include all email addresses associated with an individual’s online gambling accounts.
Once registered, individuals can choose a self-exclusion period ranging from six months to five years. During this time, they will be blocked from accessing any gambling sites that are part of the GAMSTOP network.
Online casinos in the UK must integrate GAMSTOP’s API into their systems. When a user attempts to access a gambling site, their details are checked against the GAMSTOP database. If a match is found, access is denied.
After the self-exclusion period ends, users must contact GAMSTOP to lift the ban. This process requires a 24-hour waiting period before they can gamble again at registered sites.
GAMSTOP plays a critical role in promoting responsible gambling by providing a structured mechanism for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. It helps prevent impulsive decisions leading to further financial and emotional distress. Additionally, it supports the UKGC’s efforts to enforce responsible gambling practices among licensed operators.
While GAMSTOP effectively restricts access to regulated online casinos, it does not cover unregulated or non-GAMSTOP casinos, which may pose risks for those seeking to avoid gambling altogether.
Further information and resources can be found on the GAMSTOP website.
