Regardless if you like to occasionally spin the reel or you are a regular at online casinos you have probably heard of the GamStop. This self-exclusion service allows players with gambling problems to prevent themselves from accessing casino and betting websites. However, even if software such as GamStop can be useful in treating gambling addiction, players need to realize they have a problem first. Then, they need to have a strong will and be determined that they want to solve this problem. Even if GamStop still functions only for UK-based gambling websites, this software could evolve to become a worldwide service.

How Does it Work?

In essence, all you need to do is go to the official GamStop website and get the available scheme. You will need to complete the registration process in order to use the self-excluding service. In order to complete the registration, you will need to provide certain information such as your name, email and home address, your date of birth, and more. In addition, you will be able to choose the length of your self-exclusion and some of the options are 6 months, 1 year, or up to 5 years.

This service is one of the ways people with gambling issues can put an end to spending money excessively. Those who are unable to control their gambling addiction and manage their budget properly would benefit a lot from GamStop. Another great thing about this software is that all the gamblers’ personal information is kept confidential and safe. And the best feature is that one cannot “sign out” or “quit” as the restriction will only be lifted once the selected period of time passes. Also, GamStop serves to help online players control their gambling urges, but it cannot be applied to land-based casinos.

Keep in mind that the service only works on gambling websites that are licensed by the UKGC. Also, there are still some casinos not on Gamstop available to the UK players. These websites regulated and licensed by an offshore jurisdiction offer equally good bonuses, games, and features as the UK-based sites. Thus, GamStop users who would like to play and avoid GamStop can choose some of the offshore sites.

Advantages of Using GamStop

The gambling industry is one of the most developed and faster-growing industries in the world. Yet, up until recently, the gambling addiction issue hasn’t been addressed properly over the past few decades. However, the importance of responsible gambling has become one of the main topics in the gambling world. This is why some countries still refuse to legalize certain forms of gambling, while others work on developing services such as GamStop.

So, how can GamStop help gamblers:

• It helps stop the impulsive money spending
• It prevents people from going into the red
• It prevents gamblers from losing their savings and property
• It helps build a stronger character

Furthermore, since the software is affiliated by the UK government, the services you will be using will be completely free of any charge. Thus, it will be helping gamblers address their gambling issue without any registration fees. Even if GamStop cannot guarantee you success it can help gambling addicts change their future.

Do Casino Operators Have Advantages from Using GamStop?

As of the 21st of March 2020, online gambling sites based in the UK have to collaborate with GamStop. In essence, all the websites regulated and licensed by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission have to offer GamStop services and promote responsible gambling. The way this helps the operator is that it affects the user-brand relationship and makes the brand trustworthy. This way, the operators are helping the users protect themselves from being exploited. Thus, the responsible gambling principles the operators embrace will help with user retention and it will also help the players have a more enjoyable gambling experience.

There is no rejecting the GamStop service, as it will mean license termination for all the sites operating under the United Kingdom Gambling Commission. UK-based casinos are obliged to offer these safety measures in partnership with GamStop and it is a symbol of solidarity for all those affected by uncontrolled gambling.

Summing it Up

The good part about GamStop is that it doesn’t oblige people to commit to a permanent ban. This way players who feel like they need to back off from online gambling for a while can take a 6-month break. And while questioning the effectiveness of the scheme is unnecessary, GamStop does have certain flaws. Getting over a gambling addiction is not an easy thing to do – which is why those with similar issues should admit then they have a problem and ask for help. And one way to help yourself overcome the gambling addiction can be with the help of GamStop.