What is GamStop?

For UK residents looking to take a break from online gambling, GamStop is one of the most important tools available. It’s a free, independent service that allows individuals to put controls in place to restrict their online gambling activities. But what exactly is it, how does it work, and what are its limitations? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

The Core Definition: What is GamStop?

GamStop is the official, national online self-exclusion scheme for Great Britain. When you register for the service, you will be prevented from using gambling websites and apps run by companies licensed by the Gambling Commission of Great Britain, for a period of your choosing.

It was created to give consumers a simple, single-step tool to exclude themselves from all licensed online operators simultaneously. Before GamStop, a person would have to contact each company individually to request self-exclusion, which was an impractical and often ineffective process.

How Does the Registration Process Work?

Registering for GamStop is a straightforward online process. It is completely free and confidential. Here's what you need to provide:

• Your full name and any previous names you have used.
• Your date of birth.
• Your current address and all previous postcodes.
• Your email addresses (current and past).
• Your mobile phone numbers (current and past).

It is crucial to provide as much accurate and complete information as possible. GamStop works by matching the details you provide against the information held by online gambling companies. The more comprehensive your data, the more effective the exclusion will be.

Once your registration is complete and your identity is verified, your exclusion typically becomes effective within 24 hours. You cannot cancel your exclusion until your chosen minimum period has ended.

What GamStop Covers (and What It Doesn't)

Understanding the scope of GamStop's protection is essential for managing expectations.

Included in GamStop:

The scheme legally requires all companies licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) to participate. This means your exclusion will apply to:

• All online casino and slot sites.
• All online sports betting sites.
• All online bingo and poker sites.
• Some online lottery sites (those that require a UKGC licence).

You will be blocked from logging into existing accounts and from creating new accounts with any of these operators.

Not Included in GamStop:

It's equally important to know the limitations. GamStop does not cover:

• Land-based venues: Betting shops, casinos, and bingo halls are not part of the scheme. These require separate self-exclusion through services like SENSE.
• Operators licensed outside Great Britain: Websites that are not licensed by the UKGC are not required to participate. This is a critical point we explore further in our guide to non-GamStop sites.
• The National Lottery: Purchasing tickets in-store or directly on the main National Lottery website is not blocked.

Is GamStop the Right Tool for You?

GamStop is a powerful and effective tool for anyone who feels their online gambling is becoming problematic and wants to enforce a complete break. It provides a crucial barrier that can stop impulsive behaviour and create space for reflection and change.

However, it is not a "magic bullet". It should be seen as one part of a wider strategy for managing gambling habits. For a more robust approach, it is highly recommended to combine GamStop with other tools, such as payment blocks and filtering software, and to seek guidance from support organisations.

If you feel you need help, please visit our Help & Support page for a list of professional, confidential services.