Brief overview of self-exclusion schemes in Europe

Gambling is legal in most European countries, and industry flexibility in the region creates significant challenges. Compulsive gaming and the inability to control oneself in a risky environment bring numerous problems to casino enthusiasts. Regulatory authorities aim to cope with the problem and implement additional measures to support adrenaline hunters and help them develop healthy habits. Self-exclusion is a viable solution: This tool is used in several European countries, and the trend is projected to grow in the future.

Efficiency of gambling blockers in European countries

Undeniably, self-exclusion is a working opportunity to get rid of gambling-related problems. Users don’t face the temptation of joining an online casino or sportsbook and are forced to switch to other activities. However, this option is not a one-stop solution to resolve the challenge. Despite the potential effects of gambling without GamStop program, passionate gambling enthusiasts still find ways to do so and play slots and games again. Such behaviours can result in worsened conditions and increasing rates of gaming-addicted individuals in Europe and beyond. Hence, self-exclusion is only a part of the complex mechanism aiming to decrease the harmful impact of this risky entertainment.

Other measures reliable operators consider include promoting a responsible gambling approach and setting deposit limitations for players. European authorities are especially concerned about increasing user awareness about the negative consequences of uncontrolled casino gaming and placing bets on bookmaker sites. Reputable operators providing services on the continent should focus on informing customers about the importance of bankroll management and time limits.

GamStop and its impact on the British iGaming market

The UK is known for its strict gambling regulations: the state government aims to gain more control over the industry and promote a responsible approach to this entertainment. The UKGC, the main gambling authority, regularly updated legislation, issuing new requirements for operators and players. The country has become the first to launch a nationwide self-exclusion software mandatory for all online casinos and sportsbooks registered in the jurisdiction. 

GamStop automatically bans problem users and recommends they pass appropriate treatment. At the same time, overseas platforms are not restricted in the UK, so gamblers can find numerous alternatives. Players often opt for UK sites that are not on GamStop self-exclusion since they provide no limitations for customers and offer more games and higher bonuses. The self-exclusion tool does not cover these sites, so users must maintain responsible behaviours independently.

Efficiency of OASIS self-exclusion in Germany

According to reports, approximately 30% of Germans gamble regularly, and up to 4.6 million of its residents are at risk of compulsive disorders. The country’s iGaming sector is legal and regulated, and self-exclusion has become a viable tool for coping with related disorders. OASIS was launched in 2021. Users joining this program are automatically blocked from all online casinos and bookmaker sites licensed in Germany. Besides the ban, OASIS offers treatment and guidance on further actions so that problem players can recover from addictive habits and develop a healthy approach to gambling. An increase in registrations was witnessed in previous years, which indicates that in-country players become more conscious about their pastimes.

National self-exclusion programme (NSEP) in Cyprus

The National Betting Authority is Cyprus’s central regulatory body that issues licences, controls operators, and ensures compliance with globally accepted standards. The country has recently launched a self-exclusion tool covering all platforms registered in the jurisdiction. Players can join it voluntarily and be banned from potentially harmful content for a chosen period. Like GamStop, the program’s action cannot be cancelled, so users must be attentive to details and make well-thought-out decisions. However, participants of NSEP can reach their casino accounts to withdraw funds that remained on their balance before they self-excluded. The tool is flexible and allows customization, increasing the market demand.

Italian gambling blocking programme supported by AAMS

Italian gambling legislation is similar to British industry laws since players and casinos face numerous restrictions in the country. For instance, AAMS prohibits the usage of untraceable cryptocurrencies and tries to lower the influence of overseas platforms on the in-state market. Italy has a national self-register where problem players can mark themselves and get excluded from casinos and sportsbooks when they notice the first symptoms of gambling addiction. All operators registered in the country must implement self-exclusion and regularly inform customers about the importance of being responsible

The final word

With gambling becoming a part of everyday lifestyle in Europe, self-exclusions are the latest trend in the iGaming sector, which has already become efficient in coping with gambling disorders. Even though gambling regulations vary in different countries, blockers are pretty much the same in different European regions. This tool allows users to be banned from casino and betting sites for a chosen time, during which they can pass treatment. Self-exclusions cannot be suspended or cancelled until users finish the chosen term, significantly boosting their efficiency.

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