Self-exclusion is a working solution for coping with gambling-related disorders, allowing users to recover and develop healthy habits. GamStop works in such a way that access to any potentially harmful content, specifically gambling-related content, is fully prohibited for the chosen period.
During this process, you cannot opt out of GamStop once you have signed up to it. However, you are able to remove yourself from the program by contacting GamStop after the period of exclusion is over. GamStop will not contact you; you need to reach out to them.
So, if you've excluded yourself for the maximum of 5 years, but find that you've got your gambling habit under control, are there legal ways for you to start gambling online again?
Table of contents
Rise of casinos outside self-exclusion
Currently, the UK is the only country with a nationwide self-exclusion scheme that covers all gambling operators in the jurisdiction. GamStop participants can choose the ban period themselves, varying from six months to five years.
During this time, compulsive players cannot access British-based and UK-licensed online casinos and betting platforms and are encouraged to seek help to overcome their potentially harmful habit.
Of course, the most obvious way to enjoy gambling online again is to wait until the blocking term ends. However, gamblers often recover earlier, yet they still cannot engage in this form of entertainment, online.
In this situation, some trusted non-GamStop online casinos come in handy, as they are not covered by self-exclusion and offer plenty of opportunities for players looking to enjoy a little flutter online again.
Legality of non-GamStop sites in the UK
The United Kingdom has one of the best-developed gambling sectors in the world, and the regulatory authority constantly updates requirements for gambling and betting operators.
- The UKGC aims to make the market more controlled and promote a responsible approach to this entertainment. On the other hand, overseas-registered sites are not restricted in the same way, meaning more self-excluded players are looking ‘offshore' to gamble.
- Even though the authority strives to decrease the impact of foreign companies on the iGaming sector, current laws don’t prohibit them from entering the country.
- Non-GamStop betting sites, which operate outside of UKGC regulation, cater to this niche by allowing players who are registered with self-exclusion programs like GamStop to access betting and casino platforms.
- These sites are often based overseas and function under different licensing jurisdictions, making them exempt from the UK's strict regulations.
Reliability and trustworthiness of casinos outside GamStop
Some users opt for UKGC-licensed sites, as it’s one of the most prestigious regulatory bodies globally. However, it doesn’t mean online casinos operating in other jurisdictions are unreliable.
- As a rule, non-GamStop operators are certified by offshore regulatory bodies like the Curaçao Gaming Control Board or the MGA and provide a decent level of consumer protection.
- Gambling standards are quite similar in different regions, so users should opt for licensed online casinos for the best experience.
- Operators outside the UK are also fair and implement the latest data protection mechanisms to ensure customer safety.
- Of course, users must still check all the details before joining an online casino to ensure it has the necessary safety measures and complies with the regulator’s requirements.
- Reading reviews from real customers is the best choice here, as it’s a way to explore all the advantages and potential pitfalls of a particular platform.
Benefits of joining non-GamStop casinos
Undeniably, the main advantage of platforms outside the UK is that they don’t use any mandatory self-exclusion tools. In addition, they have no game restrictions and significant betting limits, making these destinations suitable for both low-budget players and high-rollers.
🤑 Bonus hunters will also be inspired by a fantastic choice: non-GamStop operators are often more generous than their British competitors.
The regulatory basis plays a huge role here: UKGC casinos face more restrictions, which is why players sometime avoid them.
On the contrary, offshore companies operate in a more flexible environment, allowing them to delight users with more extensive portfolios and broader bonus choices.
Disadvantages of joining a non-UKGC-regulated casino
Well, it’s pretty simple – with non-UKGC-regulated online casinos, you don’t get any of the player protections that come with a licensed and regulated UKGC casino. This means that if, for whatever reason, you can’t withdraw your winnings or feel that the games aren’t fair, you have no one to turn to in order to fight your corner.
Also, if you have self-excluded, then you’ve done so for a reason. Do you really want to put yourself in a potentially dangerous situation where you can gamble online again without any of the protections of GamStop?
⚠️ We recommend that you only ever play at a licensed and regulated online casino, and if you are in the UK, make sure it’s licensed and regulated by the UKGC.
Importance of maintaining safer gaming habits
Although many gambling enthusiasts do everything possible to avoid self-exclusion, this tool is still effective in fighting compulsive disorders. It helps users control their behaviours and analyses their activities to restrict access if excessive engagement is witnessed.
On the other hand, members of non-GamStop online casinos must manage their habits themselves and adhere to responsible gambling principles, no matter how thrilling slots and other games are.
- Risk-seekers must learn the basics of safer gaming practices to avoid overspending and compulsive disorders when they join platforms without self-exclusion.
- Bankroll management is the main point to consider: players should plan their expenses in advance and remember they can always lose the entire stake.
- In addition, gambling experts highlight the need to manage time in online casinos to avoid addiction.
The final word
Self-exclusion is a useful but stringent tool in the gambling market: many users mention its enhanced efficiency in coping with compulsive problems, while others use all possible means to get around GamStop.
Luckily for passionate gamblers, playing online slots legally when restricted from UK platforms is possible in 2024, and Non-GamStop casinos are not prohibited in the UK, and other licensed and reputable sites are accessible to self-excluded customers.
However, users should never forget safer gaming requirements and should manage their bankrolls to avoid the negative consequences of uncontrolled actions.
