What GAMSTOP does
GAMSTOP Online is a free multi-operator self-exclusion service. It is designed to stop a registered person from using or opening accounts with online gambling companies licensed in Great Britain.
Current minimum exclusion options are 6 months, 1 year, 5 years, or 5 years with auto-renewal. Once an exclusion is active, it cannot simply be cancelled during the chosen minimum period.
GAMSTOP is a barrier, not treatment. Combining self-exclusion with banking blocks, blocking software and support from a trained adviser can make the protection stronger.
How to register
Go directly to GAMSTOP
Use the official gamstop.co.uk service rather than a third-party sign-up page.
Provide identity details
The service uses identifying information so participating gambling operators can match and block accounts effectively.
Choose the exclusion period
Select 6 months, 1 year, 5 years or 5 years with auto-renewal.
Keep your details current
If your email, address or phone details change, updating them can help the block remain effective.
Tools at licensed betting sites
Licensed operators are expected to have self-exclusion procedures and safer-gambling controls. Depending on the product, you may also see deposit limits, time-outs, session information and reality checks.
A regulatory detail matters in September 2026: the UKGC's revised technical definition for deposit limits is scheduled to take effect on 30 September 2026. Sites may already offer financial limits, but the new RTS 12B wording should not be described as legally effective before that date.
Payment protections
Credit-card gambling has been prohibited since 14 April 2020. The rule also requires operators to prevent credit-card-funded e-wallet payments for gambling. This is a structural protection against directly funding gambling with that form of borrowed money.
Many UK banks also provide optional gambling blocks. Those are bank products rather than UKGC self-exclusion, but they can complement GAMSTOP.
When to stop rather than “manage”
- Chasing losses or increasing stakes after a losing run.
- Betting with money needed for rent, bills, food or debt repayments.
- Hiding gambling activity or lying about losses.
- Using gambling to cope with stress, low mood or financial pressure.
- Feeling unable to stop even after setting a limit.
Do not treat a new strategy, “safer” market or smaller accumulator as the solution. Use self-exclusion and speak to a support service.
Where to get help
| Service | What it does |
|---|---|
| GAMSTOP | Free online multi-operator self-exclusion for participating licensed gambling sites and apps |
| GambleAware | Information and routes into support and treatment |
| National Gambling Helpline | 24/7 confidential support: 0808 8020 133 in England/Scotland; 0808 2819 265 in Wales |
GAMSTOP FAQ
Can I cancel GAMSTOP during my minimum period?
No. The service states that the exclusion cannot be removed during the chosen minimum period.
Does GAMSTOP work instantly?
GAMSTOP says registration takes only a few minutes, but the block can take up to 24 hours to become effective.
Can I use GAMSTOP for more than five years?
Yes. A five-year option can be set to auto-renew, creating further five-year minimum periods unless the setting is changed during the permitted window.