What is GamStop?
GamStop is a free self-exclusion service designed for residents of Great Britain who wish to restrict their online gambling activity. Launched in April 2018 and operated by the National Online Self-Exclusion Scheme Limited, GamStop allows individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from all online gambling websites and applications that are licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
The scheme was developed in response to growing concerns about problem gambling in the United Kingdom. According to the Gambling Commission’s most recent statistics, approximately 0.3% of the adult population in England are classified as problem gamblers, with a further 2.4% identified as at-risk gamblers. GamStop provides a single point of registration that activates self-exclusion across all UKGC-licensed operators simultaneously, removing the need to contact each bookmaker or casino individually.
When you register with GamStop, you choose a self-exclusion period of 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. During this time, all UKGC-licensed gambling sites are required to close your accounts and prevent you from opening new ones. The service is entirely free to use and is funded by the gambling industry as part of its regulatory obligations.
Key fact: As of 2026, over 500 online gambling operators participate in the GamStop scheme. All companies holding a UKGC licence are legally required to integrate with GamStop and honour self-exclusion registrations.
How Does GamStop Work?
GamStop operates as a centralised database that sits between gamblers and UKGC-licensed operators. When you register, your personal details are added to this database. Every UKGC-licensed gambling site is required to check new registrations and existing accounts against the GamStop database.
The system works through a process of data matching. GamStop uses the personal information you provide — your name, date of birth, email address, home address, and phone number — to identify your accounts across all participating operators. When a match is found, the operator must:
- Close or suspend your existing gambling accounts
- Remove you from all marketing communications
- Prevent you from opening new accounts during the exclusion period
- Return any balance remaining in your accounts
The exclusion typically takes effect within 24 hours of registration, though in some cases it may be active almost immediately. Operators run regular checks against the GamStop database, so even if you attempt to register with a new UKGC-licensed site during your exclusion period, you should be identified and blocked.
It is worth noting that no system is perfect. GamStop relies on accurate data matching, and there have been instances where individuals have managed to create accounts using slightly different personal details. However, operators are increasingly sophisticated in their identity verification processes, and the scheme has become more robust over time.
How to Register with GamStop – Step by Step
Registering with GamStop is a straightforward process that takes approximately 5 minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the GamStop website: Go to gamstop.co.uk and click the “Register” or “Self-Exclude” button.
- Provide your personal details: You will need to enter your full legal name, date of birth, current home address, email address(es), and mobile phone number. It is important to include all email addresses and phone numbers you have used for gambling accounts to ensure comprehensive coverage.
- Choose your exclusion period: Select from 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. Consider this choice carefully, as you will not be able to change it once confirmed.
- Verify your identity: GamStop may send a verification code to your mobile phone or email to confirm your identity.
- Confirm your registration: Review your details and confirm. You will receive an email acknowledgement.
- Wait for activation: Your self-exclusion will typically take effect within 24 hours. During this window, you may still be able to access some sites, so it is advisable to close any open sessions manually.
Tip: Include every email address and phone number you have ever used for online gambling. If you miss one, there is a risk that some accounts may not be immediately identified. You can contact GamStop later to add additional details if needed.
GamStop Duration Options
GamStop offers three fixed self-exclusion periods. Each begins from the date your registration is processed:
6 Months
The shortest exclusion period available. This option is sometimes chosen by individuals who feel they need a temporary break from gambling to regain control. It provides a cooling-off period without a long-term commitment, though it is important to remember that even the 6-month period cannot be reversed once activated.
1 Year
A middle-ground option that provides a more substantial break. The one-year exclusion is often recommended by gambling support organisations as it allows sufficient time for individuals to develop new habits, seek professional support, and address underlying issues that may contribute to problematic gambling behaviour.
5 Years
The longest exclusion period. This is typically chosen by individuals who have experienced serious gambling-related harm and want the strongest possible barrier against relapse. The five-year period provides extended protection and is generally recommended for anyone with a significant gambling problem.
Choose carefully: Once you select your exclusion period, it cannot be shortened. If you are unsure, many gambling support advisors recommend choosing a longer period rather than a shorter one. You can always decide not to return to gambling after your exclusion ends.
What Happens When You Register with GamStop
Once your GamStop registration is processed, several things happen across the UKGC-licensed gambling landscape:
- All UKGC-licensed accounts are closed or frozen: Every online gambling operator with a UKGC licence will identify your accounts and either close them or suspend them for the duration of your exclusion.
- Account balances are returned: Any funds remaining in your gambling accounts should be returned to you via your original deposit method. This includes any pending withdrawals.
- Marketing communications stop: You will be removed from all promotional mailing lists, text message campaigns, and push notifications from UKGC-licensed operators.
- New account creation is blocked: You will be unable to open new accounts at any UKGC-licensed gambling site during your exclusion period. Operators are required to check new registrations against the GamStop database.
- Existing bets may be voided or settled: Open bets at the time of exclusion are handled according to each operator’s individual policies. Some will void pending bets and return stakes, while others will allow existing bets to settle before closing the account.
It is important to understand that GamStop only affects online gambling with UKGC-licensed operators. It does not prevent you from gambling in physical betting shops, casinos, or bingo halls, and it does not apply to operators licensed outside the UK.
Can You Cancel GamStop Early?
No, you cannot cancel GamStop early. This is one of the most frequently asked questions about the scheme, and the answer is unequivocal. Once you have registered for a self-exclusion period, it remains in effect for the full duration, regardless of your personal circumstances.
This design is intentional. The purpose of GamStop is to provide a firm barrier against gambling during periods when an individual may be vulnerable. If the exclusion could be easily cancelled, it would undermine its effectiveness as a protection tool. Problem gambling often involves cycles of regret and relapse, and the inability to cancel provides protection during moments of temptation.
There are no exceptions to this rule. GamStop cannot be cancelled early for any reason, including:
- Change of mind or personal circumstances
- Wanting to access a specific promotional offer
- Claiming the registration was made in error
- Moving to a different country
- Financial reasons
If you are considering registering with GamStop, it is essential to think carefully about the duration you choose. Once confirmed, you are committed for the full period.
What Happens When Your GamStop Period Expires
When your chosen self-exclusion period comes to an end, your gambling accounts do not automatically reactivate. GamStop has built in additional safeguards to prevent impulsive decisions:
- No automatic removal: Your exclusion remains in place even after the period expires. You must actively contact GamStop to request removal from the scheme.
- Contact GamStop: You need to reach out to GamStop by phone or through their website to request that your self-exclusion be lifted.
- 24-hour cooling-off period: After you request removal, there is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period before your exclusion is actually lifted. This is designed to ensure the decision is considered and not impulsive.
- Accounts may need reactivation: Even after GamStop removes your exclusion, individual gambling operators may require you to contact them directly to reopen your accounts. Some may carry out additional responsible gambling checks before allowing you to resume play.
Many people who complete their GamStop exclusion choose not to return to gambling. If you are approaching the end of your exclusion period, it may be worth speaking with a gambling support adviser before deciding whether to resume.
GamStop Limitations – What It Does Not Cover
While GamStop is a valuable tool, it has significant limitations that users should understand. The scheme does not provide a complete barrier against all forms of gambling:
Offshore and Non-UKGC Gambling Sites
GamStop only covers operators that hold a UK Gambling Commission licence. Betting sites, casinos, and poker rooms licensed by offshore regulators — such as Curacao eGaming, the Malta Gaming Authority, or the Government of Gibraltar — are not part of the scheme. These sites can still be accessed by individuals registered with GamStop.
Land-Based Gambling
GamStop is an online-only scheme. It does not cover physical betting shops (such as Ladbrokes, William Hill, or Coral high-street premises), casinos, bingo halls, or other land-based gambling venues. For self-exclusion from physical premises, you would need to use the SENSE scheme (Self-Enrolment National Self-Exclusion) or register directly with individual venues.
The National Lottery
The National Lottery, including online lottery games and instant win games on the national-lottery.co.uk website, was historically not covered by GamStop. However, this has been changing, and players should check the current status as integration has been evolving.
Spread Betting Platforms
Financial spread betting platforms that are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) rather than the Gambling Commission are not covered by GamStop.
Private and Informal Gambling
Private poker games, informal bets between friends, and other unregulated gambling activities are obviously outside the scope of any self-exclusion scheme.
Important: If you need comprehensive gambling blocking that goes beyond UKGC-licensed sites, consider using additional tools such as GamBan or BetBlocker alongside your GamStop registration. These software solutions can block access to thousands of gambling websites worldwide, including offshore operators.
Alternatives to GamStop
Several other self-exclusion and gambling blocking tools are available in the UK, each with different features and coverage levels:
GamBan
GamBan is a software application that you install on your devices (computers, smartphones, and tablets). It blocks access to over 48,000 gambling websites worldwide, including offshore sites not covered by GamStop. GamBan works at the device level, meaning it blocks gambling sites regardless of their licensing jurisdiction. It offers a free initial period, after which a subscription is required. GamBan is particularly useful as a complement to GamStop, filling the gaps in coverage that the scheme does not address.
BetBlocker
BetBlocker is a free, charity-run gambling blocking app available for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. It blocks access to over 84,000 gambling websites and can be customised to block specific categories of gambling. BetBlocker is entirely free to use and is funded by donations from the gambling industry and charitable grants. It is a good option for those who want comprehensive blocking without subscription costs.
SENSE (Self-Enrolment National Self-Exclusion)
SENSE is the self-exclusion scheme for land-based gambling premises in England and Wales. If you want to self-exclude from physical betting shops, casinos, bingo halls, or adult gaming centres, SENSE allows you to register in one step and be excluded from all participating premises in your local area. This complements GamStop, which only covers online gambling.
Individual Operator Self-Exclusion
Every UKGC-licensed gambling operator is required to offer its own self-exclusion option. If you only want to exclude yourself from specific sites rather than all of them, you can contact individual operators directly. This is a more targeted approach but requires contacting each site separately.
Bank Gambling Blocks
Many UK banks now offer gambling transaction blocks. Banks including Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, Monzo, Starling, and others allow you to activate a feature that declines debit card transactions to gambling merchants. This adds another layer of protection and can be particularly effective when combined with GamStop and device-blocking software.
Is GamStop Effective? An Honest Assessment
GamStop has been a positive addition to the UK’s responsible gambling framework, but its effectiveness is a matter of honest debate.
Where GamStop Works Well
- Convenience: A single registration covers all UKGC-licensed operators, which is far simpler than contacting each site individually.
- Barrier creation: For many people, GamStop creates a meaningful barrier that disrupts habitual gambling behaviour and provides the breathing space needed to seek help.
- Marketing removal: Being removed from promotional communications eliminates a significant trigger for many problem gamblers.
- Free to use: The service costs nothing, making it accessible to everyone regardless of financial circumstances.
- Growing coverage: With over 500 operators participating, GamStop now covers the vast majority of the UK’s regulated online gambling market.
Where GamStop Falls Short
- Limited scope: The most significant criticism is that GamStop only covers UKGC-licensed online operators. It does not prevent access to offshore gambling sites, land-based venues, or certain lottery products.
- Workarounds exist: Determined individuals can potentially circumvent the system by using different personal details, accessing offshore sites, or gambling in physical premises.
- No device blocking: GamStop does not install blocking software on your devices. You may still see gambling advertisements online and encounter gambling content that could trigger urges.
- Data matching imperfections: The system relies on matching personal data, and there have been documented cases where accounts were missed due to slight variations in registered details.
The consensus among gambling support professionals is that GamStop works best as one part of a broader strategy rather than a standalone solution. Combining GamStop with device-blocking software (GamBan or BetBlocker), bank gambling blocks, and professional support from organisations like GamCare or BeGambleAware provides a more comprehensive approach to managing gambling behaviour.
Non GamStop Betting Sites and the Scheme
Non GamStop betting sites are online bookmakers and casinos that operate outside the UK Gambling Commission’s regulatory framework. Because they hold licences from offshore jurisdictions such as Curacao, Malta, or Gibraltar, they are not required to participate in the GamStop self-exclusion scheme.
This means that individuals who have registered with GamStop can technically still access and use these offshore betting platforms. This is one of the most significant limitations of the GamStop system and has been a point of ongoing discussion within the UK gambling industry.
We want to be transparent about our position on this matter. Our website reviews and ranks non GamStop betting sites, and we recognise that many people use these sites for perfectly legitimate reasons — such as seeking better odds, higher betting limits, cryptocurrency acceptance, or more generous bonuses. However, we also recognise that some individuals may turn to non GamStop sites specifically to circumvent their self-exclusion.
If you have registered with GamStop because of problem gambling concerns, we strongly advise against using non GamStop betting sites. The purpose of self-exclusion is to protect you during a vulnerable period, and accessing offshore gambling sites undermines that protection. Instead, we encourage you to:
- Contact BeGambleAware on 0808 8020 133 for free, confidential advice
- Reach out to GamCare for specialist gambling support
- Install GamBan or BetBlocker to block offshore gambling sites on your devices
- Activate gambling transaction blocks with your bank
- Speak with your GP about referral to specialist gambling addiction services
For a comprehensive guide to staying safe while gambling online, please read our responsible gambling page.
Frequently Asked Questions About GamStop
GamStop is a free self-exclusion scheme for UK residents who wish to restrict their online gambling activity. It is operated by the National Online Self-Exclusion Scheme Limited, a non-profit organisation. When you register with GamStop, you are blocked from accessing all online gambling websites and apps that hold a UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) licence.
GamStop offers three self-exclusion periods: 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. You choose your preferred duration when you register. Once your chosen period begins, it cannot be shortened or cancelled early under any circumstances.
No, you cannot cancel GamStop early. This is a deliberate design feature intended to protect individuals during vulnerable periods. Once you have registered for a 6-month, 1-year, or 5-year exclusion, the restriction remains in place for the full duration regardless of your circumstances.
No. GamStop only blocks online gambling sites that hold a UK Gambling Commission licence. It does not cover offshore betting sites licensed outside the UK, land-based betting shops and casinos, the National Lottery (though integration is evolving), spread betting platforms regulated by the FCA, or private and informal gambling activities.
When your GamStop self-exclusion period ends, your accounts do not automatically reactivate. You must actively contact GamStop and request removal from the scheme. There is a mandatory 24-hour cooling-off period after you request removal before your exclusion is lifted, giving you time to reconsider the decision.
No. GamStop is a self-exclusion register that blocks you from UKGC-licensed gambling sites only. GamBan is separate software that you install on your devices which blocks access to over 48,000 gambling websites worldwide, including offshore and non-UKGC sites. GamBan provides broader coverage but requires a paid subscription after the initial free period. Many people use both for maximum protection.
Technically, yes. Because GamStop only covers UKGC-licensed operators, offshore betting sites that hold licences from other jurisdictions are not part of the scheme. However, if you registered with GamStop due to problem gambling concerns, using non GamStop sites may undermine the purpose of your self-exclusion. We strongly recommend seeking support from BeGambleAware or GamCare rather than seeking ways around your exclusion.
Visit gamstop.co.uk and click “Register”. You will need to provide your full name, date of birth, email address(es), home address, and phone number. Choose your self-exclusion period (6 months, 1 year, or 5 years), then confirm your registration. The process takes approximately 5 minutes and your exclusion typically takes effect within 24 hours.