GamStop is the self-exclusion scheme used by almost every licensed online gambling operator in Great Britain. It was created by the Remote Gambling Association and is now run independently, giving players a single, simple way to block access to gambling sites for a set period. If you gamble online, understanding how it works is essential. Check out additional details at best casino welcome bonus uk 2026.
The service covers online casinos, sportsbooks, bingo sites and poker rooms. It does not, however, cover the National Lottery, scratchcards bought in shops, or land-based bookmakers and casinos. That distinction matters, because many players assume self-exclusion applies everywhere and are caught out when they can still buy a lottery ticket.
Signing up is free and takes only a few minutes. You provide your name, date of birth, address and email, and you choose a minimum exclusion period of six months, one year or five years.
How GamStop Blocks Your Access
Once registered, your details are added to a central database that all participating operators must check before accepting a new customer or allowing a deposit. If your name, email or date of birth matches an entry, the registration is refused.
Under UK Gambling Commission rules, licensed operators must participate in a multi-operator self-exclusion scheme, and GamStop is the one they use. That means coverage is broad, though not total , a small number of offshore sites still accept UK players, and those are not part of the scheme.
An important limitation is that GamStop only blocks new accounts. If your exclusion begins while you already hold an account, that operator must close it and return any balance. You cannot reverse the decision early. The block cannot be lifted until the chosen period ends, and even then there is typically a 24-hour cooling-off period before you can gamble again.
| Exclusion Length | Minimum Wait | Can Be Extended? |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months | 6 months | Yes, at any time |
| 1 year | 12 months | Yes, at any time |
| 5 years | 60 months | Yes, at any time |
Signing Up and Getting Support
Registration is done entirely online at the GamStop website. You will need a valid email address, as the confirmation link is sent there. Keep a record of the email you use, since it forms part of the data operators check against.
If you want to extend your exclusion, you can do so through your account. You can also ask GamStop to remove your details once the period expires, though some players choose to remain registered permanently.
- Gambling blocks apply from the moment your registration is confirmed.
- Operators must return funds held in your account, minus any pending bets.
- GamStop does not cover the National Lottery or in-shop betting.
- Blocking software such as Gamban can complement the scheme.
For further help, the National Gambling Helpline runs 24 hours a day on 0808 8020 133. Combining GamStop with a licensed site that offers clear, transparent terms , such as a trusted UK casino with fast withdrawals and fair bonus conditions , is the sensible approach for anyone managing their play responsibly.