GamStop gambling guide: Can I play while self-exclusion?

Gambling is a huge business nowadays, with millions enjoying their favourite gambling games every day. However, there are plenty of stories that suggest how harmful gambling can be. Over the last few years, casino and betting platforms in the UK have had to tighten their rules and improve responsible gambling departments to keep their licenses. Statistics suggest that 0.5% of the UK population deals with gambling issues while 3.8% are ‘at-risk’ as of 2023.

In the UK GamStop gambling sites help prevent gamblers from playing too much and offer self-exclusion features. Self-exclusion is a fantastic method to prevent gamblers from becoming addicted to gambling. Once you register with a GamStop platform, you will be prohibited from accessing gambling websites that are licensed by the UKGC. It is free to join and offers an easy way to stop playing.

What Are The Rules of Self-Exclusion?

There could well be occasions when gamblers wish to start playing once again after a few days of self-exclusion. You have to remember that self-exclusion periods are set for different time frames. Some gamblers like to set a self-exclusion of only 6 months. Other players prefer to prevent themselves from gambling for five years; it is a personal choice. If you would prefer not to encounter any self-exclusion features, use casinos not on GamStop in the UK or outside. These types of platforms are usually outside the United Kingdom. Below are some guidelines when you are self-excluded.

Restrictions

When you choose to enter self-exclusion you choose the time frame you would like. This could be a few weeks to 5 years. During this time you will not be able to access any gambling websites that are part of the GamStop network. The GamStop participating companies will prevent any players who are self-excluded from entering.

Software Blocking

GamStop operates by providing a centralised database through which gambling operators can block access to their websites for registered self-excluded individuals. It is worth remembering that GamStop does not cover all gambling platforms. This means there may be some platforms that users can access even while being on the self-exclusion list.

Responsibility

This is a key aspect when you are self-excluded; you must take responsibility for your gambling habits even when self-excluded. There are ways around GamStop, such as avoiding the verification process, going for crypto casinos or signing up at gambling platforms that are not registered in the UK. These can be Australian, New Zealand or Swedish casinos or betting sites. This will only undermine your efforts to control your habit and can lead to more issues.

Breaking Self-Exclusion

Self-exclusion is a method to restrict access for gamblers to GamStop gambling websites. There are, of course, easy ways to remove GamStop self-exclusion, like using non-GamStop platforms. If you enter non-GamStop gambling sites, you will be able to continue with your gambling with no issues. GamStop is provided for UK-licensed gambling companies, so using websites from outside of the UK will give you access. You should think long and hard about breaking your self-exclusion as there could be potential consequences.

The thing that we are trying to deliver to you is that exiting the self-exclusion period or switching to casino sites that are not on GamStop can negatively impact your mental and financial state. It can erode the trust they have and undermine their committed support in helping you control your gambling. It is also possible that you may be fined if you break your self-exclusion. This depends on the jurisdiction and the legal terms of the self-exclusion. And lastly, breaking your self-exclusion may hurt your finances. If you relapse and get involved in gambling addiction, it will not be good for your mental health.

Summary

It is a commitment to responsible gambling and well-being that players should be educated on. There are other tools that will also help you enjoy independent gambling. Once you are not enjoying gambling and you start taking it too seriously, it could be time to stop. GamStop offers players certain methods to assist them, which can keep gamblers on the right track. But if you are interested in breaking your self-exclusion, there is always a way to do it, as this article has discussed.