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How to Self-Exclude with GAMSTOP

If betting stops being fun, GAMSTOP lets you block yourself from all UK-licensed gambling sites in minutes. Here's how it works and what else can help.

Updated 17 August 2026.

Betting should be entertainment you can afford to lose — never a way to make money you need or to chase what you've lost. If it stops feeling that way, the most powerful tool available in Britain is GAMSTOP, a free scheme that blocks you from every UK-licensed online gambling site at once. This guide explains how to use it and what other support exists. If gambling is causing you harm, please treat this as more important than any tip; see our responsible gambling page too.

What GAMSTOP is

GAMSTOP is a free, national self-exclusion service. When you register, licensed online operators in Great Britain are required to prevent you from using their gambling sites and apps for the period you choose — six months, one year or five years.

Because it's built into the licensing system, one registration covers all participating sites, so you don't have to exclude from each bookmaker individually.

How to sign up

Registration takes only a few minutes at the official GAMSTOP website. You provide some personal details so operators can match and block your accounts, then choose your exclusion length. The block takes effect shortly after you register.

During the exclusion you won't be able to log in or bet with covered operators. It's designed to be hard to reverse on impulse — a deliberate 'cooling-off' safeguard.

What GAMSTOP doesn't cover

GAMSTOP covers UK-licensed online gambling, so it won't automatically block betting shops, or unlicensed offshore sites. For a fuller barrier, combine it with gambling-blocking software on your devices and, if needed, self-exclusion from high-street shops.

It also won't stop you paying a tipster subscription — so if you're stepping away, cancel any recurring tipster payments too, following how to get a refund from a betting tipster if you're mid-term.

Where to get further help

Support is free and confidential. GamCare runs the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133) and live chat; BeGambleAware offers advice; and GAMSTOP itself points to further resources. You don't have to wait until things feel severe to reach out.

Taking a break is a sign of control, not failure. Our whole platform is built to reduce gambling harm through transparency — see responsible gambling and why do most bettors lose? for an honest picture of the odds.

Frequently asked questions

What is GAMSTOP and is it free?

GAMSTOP is a free national self-exclusion scheme that blocks you from all UK-licensed online gambling sites and apps for six months, one year or five years, from a single registration.

How do I sign up for GAMSTOP?

Register in a few minutes on the official GAMSTOP website with some personal details and your chosen exclusion length. The block then takes effect across all participating operators.

Does GAMSTOP block everything?

It covers UK-licensed online gambling but not betting shops or unlicensed offshore sites. Combine it with device-blocking software and cancel any tipster subscriptions for a fuller break.

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