GAMSTOP is the UK's free national self-exclusion scheme. One registration blocks your access to all 1,600+ UKGC-licensed gambling sites. Here's everything you need to know.
GAMSTOP is a free service that lets you voluntarily restrict your access to online gambling sites licensed in Great Britain. It's the most powerful self-exclusion tool available to UK gamblers - a single registration blocks you from all participating operators simultaneously.
How to Register
Go to gamstop.co.uk and provide your name, date of birth, email address, phone number, and postal address. Choose your exclusion period: 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. The exclusion takes effect within 24 hours across all participating operators.
What GAMSTOP Blocks
All online gambling sites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission are legally required to participate in GAMSTOP. This covers virtually every major casino, sportsbook, and poker site operating legally in the UK - over 1,600 operators in total.
What GAMSTOP Does NOT Block
- Offshore casinos without a UKGC licence (Curaçao, MGA-only operators)
- Social gaming sites (these aren't classified as gambling)
- Land-based casinos and betting shops
- National Lottery products
For offshore sites, consider using Gamban (gamban.com) - a device-level blocker that covers 45,000+ gambling sites worldwide.
Minimum Exclusion Period
The minimum GAMSTOP exclusion period is 6 months. You cannot reduce or remove your exclusion once it's active. After the exclusion period expires, you must actively request removal from GAMSTOP - it does not automatically lift. This cooling-off period is deliberate.
What Happens to Your Casino Accounts?
Participating operators are required to close your account and return your balance within a reasonable timeframe once they identify you on the GAMSTOP register. They must also not allow you to reopen an account during the exclusion period.
If You Need Help Right Now
GamCare operates a 24/7 helpline at 0808 8020 133. The National Problem Gambling Clinic (NHS) offers free specialist treatment for people in England. Gamblers Anonymous runs free meetings across the UK and online. None of these services require a referral.
