For UK players, GamStop provides a universal self-exclusion from all UK-licensed online gambling sites. However, if you’ve chosen to play at Non-GamStop casinos (which operate under international licenses and are not part of the GamStop scheme), you need to understand that self-exclusion works differently. There isn’t a single, overarching scheme that will block you from all of them simultaneously.
Staying safe at best non GamStop casinos, especially if you feel your gambling is becoming problematic, relies on a multi-faceted approach.
1. Utilize Each Casino’s Individual Self-Exclusion Tools
Every reputable online casino, regardless of its licensing jurisdiction, is required to offer its own responsible gambling tools. This is your primary method of self-exclusion when playing outside the GamStop network.
How to self-exclude from an individual Non-GamStop casino:
- Access Responsible Gambling Section: Log into your casino account. Look for a section often labelled “Responsible Gaming,” “Safer Gambling,” “My Account,” or “Limits” within your profile or settings. This is usually easily accessible from the main menu or footer of the website.
- Find Self-Exclusion Option: Within this section, you should find options to set limits or self-exclude. Self-exclusion typically allows you to choose a period during which your account will be locked, and you won’t be able to log in or deposit. Common periods range from 24 hours (a “cooling-off” period) to several weeks, months, or even permanently.
- Confirm Your Choice: Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm your self-exclusion. The casino should provide clear confirmation once it’s active.
- Contact Customer Support Directly: If you cannot find the self-exclusion option yourself, or if you prefer a more direct approach, immediately contact the casino’s customer support.
- Live Chat: This is usually the quickest method. State clearly that you wish to self-exclude your account due to gambling concerns.
- Email: Send a written request to their support email address. This creates a paper trail. Clearly state your username, the reason for exclusion (e.g., “gambling problems”), and the desired self-exclusion period (e.g., “permanent self-exclusion”).
- Follow Up: Ensure you receive a confirmation email or message from the casino stating that your self-exclusion is active.
Important Note: This self-exclusion only applies to that specific casino. If you play at multiple Non-GamStop sites, you must repeat this process for each one individually.
2. Implement External Blocking Software
This is a crucial layer of protection, as it works at the device level, blocking access to gambling sites regardless of their licensing.
- Gamban: A leading paid software solution designed specifically to block gambling websites and apps across all your devices (PC, Mac, iOS, Android). Once installed, it’s very difficult to remove during the exclusion period. GamCare often offers free Gamban licenses to individuals contacting their National Gambling Helpline.
- BetBlocker: A free, UK-registered charity that provides blocking software for gambling websites. It’s available across multiple platforms and can be installed on an unlimited number of devices. It offers a calendar feature to set specific periods of restriction.
- GamBlock: Another robust paid blocking software known for its comprehensive and difficult-to-circumvent blocking capabilities across various devices.
Tips for using blocking software:
- Install it on all your devices (phone, tablet, computer).
- If possible, have a trusted friend or family member set it up and hold the password, so you cannot easily override it.
3. Utilize Bank Gambling Blocks
Many major UK banks now offer free services that allow you to block gambling transactions on your debit or credit cards.
- Contact Your Bank: Get in touch with your bank directly (via their app, online banking, or phone) and ask them to apply a gambling block to your accounts and cards.
- Consider Multiple Accounts: If you have accounts with different banks, apply blocks to all of them.
4. Remove Yourself from Marketing Lists
Even if you self-exclude, you might still receive marketing materials.
- Unsubscribe: Always click the “unsubscribe” link in any promotional emails you receive.
- Contact Support: Explicitly request customer support to remove you from all marketing lists (email, SMS, postal mail) when you self-exclude.
5. Seek Professional Help and Support
If you’re considering self-exclusion, it’s a strong indicator that you might benefit from professional support for gambling-related harm.
- GamCare: The leading UK charity providing free information, advice, and support for anyone affected by gambling. They operate the National Gambling Helpline (Freephone 0808 8020 133, available 24/7) and offer live chat, online forums, and structured treatment. They can also advise on blocking software like Gamban.
- GambleAware: An independent charity tasked to fund research, education, and treatment services to help reduce gambling-related harms in Great Britain. They provide information and direct to support services.
- Gamblers Anonymous: A fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from a gambling problem.
6. Consider Internet Service Provider (ISP) Controls
Some ISPs offer parental control or content filtering options that can be used to block access to gambling websites across your home network. Check with your specific provider.
The Bottom Line:
While Non-GamStop casinos offer a different experience, the responsibility for safe gambling, and especially for self-exclusion, falls more heavily on the individual. A combination of direct casino self-exclusion requests, robust blocking software, bank gambling blocks, and professional support is the most effective way to stay safe and manage your gambling habits when playing outside the GamStop scheme.
