This is an editorial guide for information and support only, and isn’t medical, legal or financial advice. If gambling is causing harm to you or someone you know, free and confidential help is available 24/7 — see the support details at the end of this guide.
What Is GAMSTOP and How Do You Register?
GAMSTOP is the UK’s free online self-exclusion scheme — one of the most effective tools for stepping away from online gambling. Here’s how it works and how to sign up.
What it does
Once you register, GAMSTOP blocks you from logging into or opening accounts with every gambling business licensed in Great Britain, and stops them sending you marketing. It’s been mandatory for all UK-licensed online operators since 2020.
How to register
Sign up free at gamstop.co.uk using your personal details, which are matched against gambling accounts. You choose a self-exclusion period of 6 months, 1 year or 5 years — and crucially, it can’t be lifted before that period ends.
What it doesn’t cover
GAMSTOP covers UK-licensed online gambling only — not offshore sites or physical betting shops. For fuller protection, pair it with blocking software and a bank block, and self-exclude from venues separately. See how self-exclusion works, gambling blocking software and self-excluding from betting shops.
Frequently asked questions
How do I register with GAMSTOP?
Sign up free at gamstop.co.uk with your personal details, which are matched against UK-licensed gambling accounts.
How long does GAMSTOP last?
You choose 6 months, 1 year or 5 years, and it can’t be lifted before the period ends.
Does GAMSTOP block all gambling?
It blocks UK-licensed online sites and apps only — pair it with blocking software and a bank block for wider cover.
Related guides: how self-exclusion works, gambling blocking software and self-excluding from betting shops.