Self-Exclusion Explained: How Casino Blocking Tools Work

What Is Self-Exclusion?

Self-exclusion is a formal commitment to stop gambling for a set period by blocking yourself from accessing casino accounts and gambling websites. It is the strongest responsible gambling tool available, designed for anyone who feels they need a complete break from gambling rather than just tighter limits.

Unlike deposit limits or time-outs, self-exclusion is not easy to reverse. That is the point. It creates a barrier that holds even when your willpower does not. If you are noticing signs of problem gambling in yourself, self-exclusion may be the right step — and this guide explains exactly how it works.

How GAMSTOP Works

GAMSTOP is a free self-exclusion service available to anyone in Great Britain. When you register, GAMSTOP shares your details with every UK-licensed online gambling operator. Within 24 hours, all participating sites must block you from logging in, creating new accounts, depositing, placing bets, and receiving marketing.

Registration takes a few minutes. You provide your name, date of birth, email address, phone number, and postcode. GAMSTOP matches these details against operator databases to identify and close your accounts. All UK-licensed operators have been legally required to participate since March 2020.

Over 532,000 people had registered with GAMSTOP by the end of 2024, and registrations increased by 19% in the first half of 2025 — a sign that more players are proactively using the tools available to them.

Other Self-Exclusion and Blocking Tools

GAMSTOP covers UK-licensed sites, but gambling is global. Device-level blocking tools provide an additional layer of protection by preventing access to gambling websites and apps entirely — including unlicensed offshore operators.

BetBlocker

BetBlocker is a free tool developed by a UK-registered charity. It blocks access to over 84,000 gambling websites across all your devices — phones, tablets, and computers. You choose the blocking period, and there is no time limit requirement. BetBlocker works alongside GAMSTOP for comprehensive coverage.

Gamban

Gamban is blocking software that prevents access to online gambling sites and apps at the device level. UK residents can access a free Gamban licence through the TalkBanStop partnership with GamCare and GAMSTOP. Gamban is particularly effective because it blocks both licensed and unlicensed gambling platforms.

Banks also now offer gambling transaction blocking, which prevents your debit card from being used for gambling payments. Check with your bank whether this feature is available — major UK banks including Monzo, Starling, Barclays, and Lloyds all offer it.

How Long Does Self-Exclusion Last?

GAMSTOP offers three exclusion periods:

• 6 months — the most popular option, chosen by 39% of users
• 1 year
• 5 years — includes an optional auto-renewal feature

The 5-year option allows you to enable auto-renewal, which means your exclusion continues indefinitely unless you actively choose to end it. Auto-renewal can only be turned off during the final 6 months of your exclusion period. This design prevents impulsive decisions to return to gambling before you are ready.

BetBlocker and Gamban offer flexible blocking periods that you control independently of GAMSTOP.

What Happens When You Self-Exclude?

When your GAMSTOP registration becomes active, the following changes take effect across all participating operators:

• You cannot log in to existing accounts
• You cannot create new accounts
• You cannot deposit money or place bets
• You are removed from all marketing lists
• Any remaining account balances are returned to you

Self-exclusion does not erase your account history. If you owe bankroll withdrawals, the operator must process them. Self-exclusion only blocks future gambling activity.

It is worth noting that GAMSTOP does not cover land-based casinos or betting shops. Separate schemes exist for physical venues, including SENSE for casinos and self-exclusion.co.uk for bookmakers. The responsible gambling tools guide covers these in more detail.

Can You Reverse Self-Exclusion?

You cannot reverse a GAMSTOP exclusion before the chosen period ends. There is no override, no appeal, and no way for a casino to grant access during the exclusion. This is by design.

When your exclusion period expires, you are not automatically returned to gambling. GAMSTOP sends you a notification and asks whether you want to extend your exclusion or allow it to end. If you choose to end it, there is a further 24-hour cooling-off period before any gambling site can reactivate your account. Many people choose to extend.

When to Consider Self-Exclusion

Self-exclusion is appropriate when lighter tools — like deposit limits and time-outs — are not providing enough protection. Specific signs that self-exclusion may be the right step include:

• Repeatedly hitting your deposit limit and feeling frustrated or anxious
• Creating accounts at multiple casinos to bypass limits
• Gambling with money you cannot afford to lose
• Lying about your gambling to people close to you
• Feeling unable to stop even though you want to

If any of these apply, self-exclusion is not an overreaction — it is a practical step that nearly half of GAMSTOP registrants credit with helping them stop gambling entirely. Combine it with support from organisations like GamCare or Gambling Therapy for the best results.

For help identifying casino red flags and choosing operators with strong player protection, browse our casino guides.

Conclusion

Self-exclusion is not a last resort — it is a responsible choice that thousands of people make every month. If gambling is no longer enjoyable, or if you feel you are losing control, registering takes minutes and the protection is immediate. You can always reassess when the period ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is GAMSTOP free to use?

Yes. GAMSTOP is completely free. It is funded by the UK gambling industry as a regulatory requirement. There is no charge to register, and no charge to extend your exclusion period.

Does GAMSTOP cover all gambling sites?

GAMSTOP covers all UK-licensed online gambling operators. It does not cover unlicensed offshore sites or land-based venues. For broader coverage, combine GAMSTOP with device-level blocking tools like BetBlocker or Gamban.

Can I self-exclude from just one casino?

Yes. Most individual casinos allow you to self-exclude from their site alone. However, this does not prevent you from gambling elsewhere. GAMSTOP provides multi-operator exclusion across all UK-licensed sites, which is more effective for most people.

What happens to money in my casino account when I self-exclude?

Any remaining balance must be returned to you. Operators are required to process pending withdrawals and return funds to your registered payment method. They cannot confiscate your money because of self-exclusion.

Can I still play at land-based casinos while registered with GAMSTOP?

Yes. GAMSTOP only covers online gambling. For land-based exclusion, you need to register with SENSE (casinos) or self-exclusion.co.uk (betting shops). The house edge applies in physical venues just as it does online — the same financial risks exist.