18+ only. Gambling can be addictive — please play responsibly. Responsible Gambling
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Responsible Gambling

Safer gambling means keeping play within your time and money limits, knowing when to stop, and using the free tools licensed UK operators must provide. This page summarises practical steps, support options, and how to self-exclude if needed.

For adults 18+ in the UK • Last updated: 17 September 2025

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Built-in safer-play tools (UKGC-licensed sites)

  • Deposit limits — set a daily/weekly/monthly cap. Make it realistic; lower it if you hit it often.
  • Time-outs — pause your account for hours or days when play feels impulsive.
  • Reality checks — on-screen reminders of time spent and net results.
  • Self-exclusion — block yourself for 6 months or longer. Prefer national self-exclusion via GAMSTOP.
  • Account controls — disable products (e.g., casino/live) you find most risky.

Early warning signs

If any of the following feels familiar, take a break and consider professional advice:

  • Chasing losses or increasing stakes to “win it back”.
  • Skipping work, studies or plans because of gambling.
  • Irritability, secrecy or lying about time/money spent.
  • Borrowing to gamble or using money meant for essentials.

Set a plan before you play

  1. Decide a strict budget you can afford to lose; never exceed it.
  2. Use time limits and stop when the timer ends — win or lose.
  3. Keep gambling funds separate from essential spending.
  4. Log results honestly; if you’re often over budget, reduce limits or stop.

Blocking and filtering

Website and app blockers can reduce impulsive play and complement self-exclusion. Examples include DNS/hosts filtering, browser extensions, and device-level parental controls. Choose tools you cannot easily bypass and apply them on all devices you use.

Protecting minors (18+ only)

  • Keep devices locked and do not share passwords.
  • Use content filters and safe-search on home Wi-Fi and mobiles.
  • Talk openly about risks; gambling is not a way to make money.

FAQ

What is GAMSTOP and when should I use it?

GAMSTOP is the UK’s free online self-exclusion scheme. It prevents you from using gambling accounts at UK-licensed operators for the period you choose. Use it if limits and time-outs are not enough, or if you want a decisive break from online gambling.

Can you help me resolve a dispute with a casino?

First contact the operator’s support and follow their complaints process. If unresolved, escalate to an approved ADR (for some brands this is eCOGRA). Document everything — dates, chat logs, screenshots — and consider pausing play until it’s sorted.

Is it possible to completely block gambling on my phone?

You can combine: device parental controls, DNS filtering, app-store restrictions, and self-exclusion services. There is no single perfect solution, so layer protections and ask someone you trust to hold the passcode.

This page is informational and not medical advice. If gambling affects your wellbeing or finances, seek professional help. UK residents can start with GamCare or BeGambleAware.