Self-exclusion

Self-exclusion is one of the core pillars of responsible gambling. It allows individuals to voluntarily block themselves from accessing gambling platforms for a set period — often ranging from a few weeks to several years. The purpose is simple but powerful: to help players regain control over their gambling behavior.

For operators and regulators, self-exclusion isn’t just a compliance box to tick.

It’s a signal: a behavioral indicator that someone may be at risk. That’s why Blask tracks this phenomenon at scale.

How self-exclusion works

Once a player activates self-exclusion, their access to licensed gambling platforms is immediately restricted. In countries with centralized systems — such as the UK’s GAMSTOP, Sweden’s Spelpaus, or Spain’s Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego — this restriction applies across all operators nationwide.

The rules are strict by design:

• The self-exclusion period cannot be canceled until it expires
• Operators are required to stop all direct marketing to excluded users
• In some cases, ID-based verification systems prevent re-registration during the exclusion period

It’s a hard break, not just a pause button. And that’s what makes it effective.

Why self-exclusion matters in iGaming

In regulated markets, offering a robust self-exclusion feature is a legal requirement. But beyond that, it reflects an operator’s values.

A well-implemented self-exclusion system:

• Reduces gambling-related harm
• Supports regulatory compliance
• Reinforces trust with players and stakeholders
• Signals maturity to partners, affiliates, and investors

In an industry under growing scrutiny, promoting responsible gambling is not just good ethics — it’s good business.

How Blask tracks the problem gambling landscape

Through Blask Customer Profile and our Problem Gambling Status Metric, you can assess the estimated share of at-risk players within any market.

• Which countries have the highest proportions of problem gamblers?
• Are players in a specific region more prone to risk behavior?

Read more: What is the problem gambling status metric?

Examples of national self-exclusion programs

• GAMSTOP (UK): National, cross-operator system
• Spelpaus (Sweden): Mandatory exclusion applied across all licensees
• DGOJ Registry (Spain): Government-run exclusion program
• ARJEL (France): Integrated within the national license model
• BetStop (Australia): A new nationwide system launched in 2023

In each of these markets, operators are held accountable — and self-exclusion trends are tied to brand reputation and licensing status.

Benefits of self-exclusion — for players and brands

For players:

• Regain control: Pause gambling without needing to explain or justify
• Minimize harm: Reduce risk of addiction and financial consequences
• Remove temptation: Centralized bans help close loopholes across platforms

For operators:

• Build trust: A clear self-exclusion process demonstrates care, not just compliance
• Protect your brand: Avoid reputational damage by prioritizing player well-being
• Drive long-term loyalty: Players are more likely to return to brands they trust after a break

Conclusion

Self-exclusion is more than a feature — it’s a statement. For players, it offers a practical way to take control. For operators, it reflects a commitment to ethical standards and long-term sustainability. And for the iGaming industry as a whole, it signals progress toward safer, smarter digital entertainment.