Guide to Self-Exclusion - Tool for Responsible Gambling

Gambling is meant to be enjoyable, yet it can become problematic for some. If you're always trying to win back losses, hiding your gambling behavior, or feel anxious without betting, it's time for a rethink.

A practical way to safeguard yourself, whether online or offline, is by using self-exclusion tools. This guide will discuss the following points:

  • Understanding Self-Exclusion: Learn about self-exclusion, its workings, and discover if it's suitable for you.
  • Effective Use of Self-Exclusion: Discover various self-exclusion methods, from digital to physical bans.
  • Creating a Relapse Prevention Plan: Find useful strategies, tools, and support to help you avoid returning to gambling.

Table of Contents

What is Self-Exclusion?

Self-exclusion is an effective method to manage your gambling. It involves asking a gambling operator, whether online or on-site, to deny you access to their services. This means you cannot log in, place bets, or receive marketing messages.

If a firm boundary is what you need, self-exclusion offers a strong solution.

How Self-Exclusion Works

Self-exclusion is a voluntary yet binding commitment. Once you register, you tell the gambling provider to restrict your access for a chosen duration, from 6 months up to 5 years, with some programs even allowing a permanent ban.

During this period, your access is blocked. Online, this means you'll be locked out of your account and unable to create new accounts on the same site. In physical locations, you'll be on their "do not admit" list, barring entry.

Why Self-Exclusion Matters

Self-exclusion is crucial for managing gambling habits. For anyone seeking to reclaim control, it's a necessary part of the recovery journey.

Limiting Gambling Options

Excluding yourself restricts access to gambling sites, thereby reducing the urge to gamble. This barrier, both online and offline, is particularly helpful during vulnerable times when impulsive decisions are more likely.

Taking Charge

Self-exclusion allows you to regain control over your gambling habits. It’s a deliberate move that bolsters your confidence and reinforces your resolve to make healthier life choices.

Supporting Your Recovery

When paired with counseling and support groups, self-exclusion is a valuable part of a comprehensive recovery strategy. We'll delve deeper into this in the section on Relapse Prevention Strategies. For now, know that self-exclusion is a key element in your path to recovery.

Does Self-Exclusion Help?

Yes, evidence supports its effectiveness. As per a study in the Journal of Gambling Studies, those who opt for long-term self-exclusion see a marked drop in both gambling exposure and frequency.

Types of Self-Exclusion

Your gambling patterns and location determine the available self-exclusion options. Here's a look at the different types:

Online Gambling Self-Exclusion

There are both global and region-specific self-exclusion schemes. Global programs block access to multiple sites worldwide, whereas region-specific programs, such as GamStop in the UK, cater to specific areas.

Exclusion from Certain Platforms

Numerous online casinos and sportsbooks have self-exclusion tools on their sites, typically found under Responsible Gambling. Some may require contacting customer support to start the self-exclusion.

Ban from Real-World Gambling Venues

To self-exclude from physical casinos or betting shops, you can request to join their self-exclusion programs. There are also Multi-Operator Self-Exclusion Schemes (MOSES) that can bar you from several venues at once.

Steps to Self-Exclude from Online Casinos

If you're set on joining a self-exclusion program, the process is generally simple. Though online casinos may differ slightly by region, here’s a typical step-by-step guide:

Here’s how to self-exclude:

  1. Log Into Your Account: Access your online casino account—multiple accounts, if needed—and ensure you're signed in.
  2. Find the Responsible Gambling Section: Usually located in the website footer or within your account settings.
  3. Choose the Self-Exclusion Option: Seek out a “Self-Exclusion” or “Limit Your Play” choice.
  4. Select the Duration: Decide on the length of your exclusion, with options typically ranging from 6 months to indefinite.
  5. Confirm Your Choice: Review the terms and conditions and confirm your self-exclusion request.
  6. Verification: Be ready to provide ID documents to confirm your account ownership.
  7. Document Confirmation: Once approved, your access will be blocked, preventing login or new account creation.

Verify Your Self-Exclusion

Afterward, attempt logging in a day or two later. This ensures your exclusion is active. If access is still possible, contact customer support immediately to resolve the issue.

Preventing Mobile Gambling Access

Are you among the many who gamble on their mobile devices? While mobile gambling allows you to play anytime and anywhere, it also presents challenges in managing your gaming habits. Fortunately, there are effective methods to block or limit gambling on mobile devices. Here are some options to help you take charge.

Install Exclusion Apps

One effective way to block access to gambling sites on your mobile is by using these apps:

  • Gamban: Gamban is an all-encompassing tool that restricts access to gambling sites and apps on your devices, ideal for players aiming for full self-exclusion.
  • GamBlock: Like Gamban, GamBlock stops access to gambling platforms, enabling you to impose restrictions on your devices.

To begin, simply visit the app’s website, download the suitable version for your device, and activate it by creating an account. Tailor the settings to match your needs and ensure complete restriction from gambling sites.

Apply Parental Controls

If exclusion apps don’t suit you, try parental control tools. Originally intended to protect minors, they are equally effective in blocking gambling content for adults. Here are some recommended parental control tools:

  • BetFilter: BetFilter prevents gambling-related content across your home network, blocking access to online gambling sites.
  • Net Nanny: This robust parental control tool offers gambling site blocking, along with features like time management and monitoring for multiple devices.

What Becomes of Your Money?

Deciding to self-exclude from a casino can leave you wondering about your leftover balance. It's a reasonable concern, and understanding your rights eases the process. Let's clarify.

Account Balance During Self-Exclusion

Once self-exclusion is initiated, your casino account freezes. Rest assured, your balance is typically secure. Trustworthy casinos, especially those regulated by entities like the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) or EU authorities, must safeguard any remaining funds. You'll have to complete several steps to access and withdraw it.

Laws differ by region. For example, the UKGC requires casinos to honor player balances, but this may vary in the US, where state laws differ. Always review the terms and conditions to understand how your funds are managed.

Typical Outcomes for Your Funds

When retrieving your remaining funds, there are usually three scenarios:

  • Immediate Withdrawal: Contact customer service promptly after self-excluding, and in many cases, you can withdraw your funds. Be ready to verify your identity as part of standard anti-money laundering measures. Certain casinos allow withdrawals directly from your account dashboard.
  • Donation or Forfeiture: Some casinos may donate unclaimed funds to responsible gambling charities or forfeit them after inactivity. To prevent this, check your balance and withdraw quickly after self-exclusion.
  • Regulatory Transfer: In some strictly regulated areas, unused funds might be transferred to regulatory authorities. This can happen if you delay withdrawing, so acting swiftly is advisable.

Steps to Retrieve Your Money

Withdrawing your funds is generally simple. Here's how to ensure a smooth process:

  • Contact Customer Support: Reach out to the casino's customer service via chat, email, or phone. Notify them of your desire to withdraw the remaining balance, and they'll guide you through the steps.
  • Verify Your Identity: Be prepared to provide identification documents like a passport or utility bill. This standard procedure ensures security and fraud prevention.
  • Request Confirmation: Once your withdrawal is in motion, seek confirmation via email or your account. This ensures you have evidence of the transaction in case of issues.
  • Track the Process: If the withdrawal takes longer than expected, follow up with customer support. Typically, self-exclusion withdrawals are processed like regular payouts, but delays can occur.

Understand Your Rights and Timelines

Don't let your balance sit idle. Many casinos have policies to retain or donate unclaimed funds after a set period, usually 6 to 12 months. It's crucial to act quickly to avoid losing access.

In the UK, you're protected by UKGC regulations, requiring casinos to inform you of these deadlines. But if you're elsewhere, particularly in the US, ensure you check local laws and casino policies for self-exclusion timelines.

For additional information on your rights as a self-excluded player, consider these useful resources:

Self-Exclusion vs. Account Closure: What's the Difference?

If you're considering a break from gambling, deciding between self-exclusion and account closure might puzzle you. Here's a comparison to clarify the differences:

Here's a breakdown:

Self Exclusion Account Closure
Self-exclusion places you on an exclusion list managed by the casino or a regulatory body. Account closure means you close your account completely, with no login option.
It also stops the casino from sending you gambling marketing materials. After account closure, you can no longer use the platform.
Self-exclusion typically bars you from logging into your account or creating new ones on the excluded platforms. Account closure doesn’t stop you from opening new accounts on the same or other gambling sites.
Self-exclusion is a lasting solution to reduce gambling addiction risks. Account closure ends your relationship with a specific gambling provider, but you can return later.

Your decision will depend on whether you need broader restrictions across multiple platforms or want to end your relationship with a specific casino. Reflect on your goals and decide accordingly.

Strategies to Avoid Relapse

Overcoming gambling addiction is challenging, and self-exclusion alone won't guarantee success. A multi-faceted approach is vital to prevent relapse and maintain progress. Here are practical, expert-backed strategies to bolster your recovery.

Recognizing and Managing Triggers

Identifying triggers—situations or feelings that make you want to gamble—is crucial for recovery. Whether it's stress, boredom, or alcohol, understanding what prompts your cravings is essential for long-term success. Once you know your triggers, you can begin managing them effectively.

Here are effective trigger management strategies:

  • Alternative Activities: Find new hobbies or interests that replicate the dopamine rush gambling provided. This could include exercise, painting, or gardening.
  • Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness. Even a few minutes daily can calm your mind and reduce cravings.
  • Delay Tactics: Apply the 10-minute rule—when you feel the urge to gamble, wait 10 minutes. Often, the craving will pass, giving you more control.

Building a Support Network

Recovery doesn't have to be solitary. A robust support network can significantly help in preventing relapse.

Here's how support can benefit you:

  • Join a Support Group: Groups like Gamblers Anonymous provide a community where you can share experiences and learn from others who understand your struggles. The accountability and shared wisdom can keep you on track.
  • Professional Counselling: A therapist, especially one trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help identify negative thought patterns and equip you with tools to combat them.

Implementing Financial Controls

Limiting access to money is one of the most effective methods to prevent relapse. Gambling thrives on easy cash access, so making it harder to spend can be a strong preventive measure.

Here are some steps to restrict your financial access:

  • Limit Access to Cash: Use a bank account not linked to your debit card or credit line, or switch to a cash-only system for daily expenses.
  • Accountability Partner: Ask a trusted friend or family member to help monitor your finances. Having someone to check in with adds an extra layer of protection and support.

Global Self-Exclusion Contacts for Players

Europe

Country Organisation
Austria Limitierung & Selbstsperre
Belgium Belgian Gaming Commission
Denmark ROFUS
Finland Veikkaus
France Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ)
Germany Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) - Check dein Spiel
Hungary Játékosvédelem
Italy Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (ADM)
Netherlands Cruks (Centraal Register Uitsluiting Kansspelen)
Portugal Autoexclusão e Proibição
Romania Joc Responsabil
Slovakia URHH
Spain RGIAJo
Spain Ordenación del Jueg
Sweden Spelpaus
Switzerland Careplay
Switzerland Spielerschutz
United Kingdom GAMSTOP

United States

State Organisation
Arizona Department of Gaming
Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection - Gaming Division
Delaware Lottery Games
Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling
Indiana Indiana Gaming Commission
Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission
Louisiana Gaming Control Board
Maine Division of Disease Prevention
Massachusetts Massachusetts Gaming Commission
Michigan Michigan Gaming Control Board
Mississippi Mississippi Gaming Commission
Missouri Missouri Gaming Commission
New Jersey Department of Law & Public Safety
New York New York Gaming Commission
Oklahoma Oklahoma Lottery
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
Kansas Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission

Canada

Province Organisation
Alberta Loteria de la Provincia
British Columbia BCLC’s Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program
Manitoba Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries
Ontario Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation’s My PlayBreak Program

Latin America (LATAM)

Country Organisation
Argentina Loteria de la Provincia
Chile Autoexclusión Voluntaria
Colombia Coljuegos
Peru Programa de Juego Responsable (GOB.PE)
Uruguay Solicitud de Auto Exclusión
Panama Programa de Juego Responsable

Conclusion: The Role of Self-Exclusion in Your Gaming Tactics

Taking the reins of your gambling practices involves making informed choices, and self-exclusion is a practical tool in managing game-related impulses. It helps establish limits and mitigates sudden decisions.

To be most effective, self-exclusion should be used in conjunction with other safe gambling techniques, such as support systems and practical precautions.

Here are the three main insights to consider:

  • Self-Exclusion is a Valuable Tool, Use Wisely: It limits access to gambling venues, thus providing a security layer when needed. As this is usually a temporary fix, make sure it fits your situation before enrolling.
  • Draft a Plan to Avoid Relapses: While self-exclusion is a significant asset, it should complement a comprehensive approach. Recognize triggers, find alternative activities, and create financial protections to ensure ongoing management.
  • Commit to Consistent Responsible Gaming: Consistent habits are key to secure gaming. Setting boundaries, watching for signs, and utilizing self-exclusion are all crucial parts of a sustained strategy for responsible gambling.

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