How to Remove GamStop: A Comprehensive Guide (2025 Update)
In today’s digital era, online gambling is more accessible than ever, which increases convenience but also raises concerns for people struggling with gambling addiction. To help, the UK created GamStop — a free self-exclusion program that blocks access to all UKGC-licensed online gambling sites for a chosen period (6 months, 1 year, or 5 years). Early removal of GamStop exclusion is not possible; users must wait until their period ends. To deactivate after expiry, contact GamStop directly—identity verification and a 24-hour cooling-off period are required before access is restored. This guide outlines the removal process, clarifies that early cancellation isn’t permitted, explains next steps after expiry, and covers alternatives for those seeking to wager online during exclusion, based on trusted industry and GamStop sources.
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What Exactly Is GamStop?
Before we dive into the removal process, let’s define GamStop and how it functions. GamStop is a central self-exclusion scheme created in the UK to help people limit their access to online gambling.
Extension Details: At the end of the chosen exclusion period, the exclusion does not automatically lift. Users must actively request its removal, or it will be extended by an additional 7 years.mandatory for all UKGC-licensed operators, making it a robust tool for those seeking to restrict their gambling activities.
Purpose: GamStop empowers users to take control of their gambling habits by effectively blocking access to all online casinos, betting sites, and platforms licensed by the UKGC.
Exclusion Durations: Users have the option to set exclusion periods for 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years.
Scope: GamStop only applies to sites holding a UKGC license. Platforms licensed outside the UK (e.g., Malta Gaming Authority, Curaçao, Gibraltar) are not affected by GamStop.
Registration Process: Signing up is free and easy. Users provide their personal details, and they’re promptly blocked from all participating sites.
GamStop is a mandatory measure for all UKGC-licensed operators, making it a powerful and widely used tool for those wanting to curb their gambling activity.
Is Early Removal Possible?
A common question is whether you can cancel or remove your GamStop exclusion before the chosen term ends. The short answer: early removal is absolutely not possible. GamStop’s firm policy is that an exclusion cannot be lifted early. This is to protect vulnerable people.
The GamStop website states:
“No, we cannot remove an exclusion early. This is in place to ensure that the GamStop scheme provides the best possible protection for vulnerable people” (Can I cancel my exclusion early?).
This strictness highlights the seriousness of gambling problems and the need for a cooling-off period. If you opted for a 6-month exclusion, you must wait out the full 6 months.
Steps to Remove GamStop After the Exclusion Period Ends
If your exclusion period has expired and you wish to regain access to UKGC-licensed sites, a specific process must be followed. Below are the detailed steps:
1. Check the Exclusion Status
- Confirm that your exclusion period has indeed ended. Log in to your GamStop account to verify this.
- If you have lost access to your account (e.g., forgotten login details), contact GamStop support for assistance.
- Note: The exclusion does not automatically lift at the end of the period. Without your request, it will remain active for an additional 7 years.
2. Contact GamStop Support
- To initiate the removal process, reach out to GamStop support. They will guide you through the steps.
- Contact Details:
- Phone: 0800 138 6518 (free in the UK).
- Email: [email protected].
- Operating Hours: Support is available daily from 10:00 to 20:00 BST.
- Important: Do not contact support if your exclusion period has not yet ended, as they will not process early removal requests.
3. Verify Your Identity
- During the call or email correspondence, you will need to provide personal details to verify your identity. This is a standard security measure to ensure the removal request comes from the account holder.
- Be prepared to provide information such as your full name, date of birth, and possibly other identification details.
4. Await Confirmation
- Once your identity is verified, GamStop will process your removal request. This may take a few days.
- Upon completion, you will receive confirmation via email or phone, notifying you that the exclusion has been lifted.
5. Cooling-Off Period
- After the exclusion is removed, a mandatory 24-hour cooling-off period begins. During this time, you can reconsider and reinstate the exclusion if desired.
- To cancel the removal, log in to your GamStop account and request to extend the exclusion. If you cannot access your account, contact support again.
- This cooling-off period is designed to give you time to reflect on your decision and ensure you are ready to return to gambling responsibly.
Table: Key Steps to Remove GamStop
| Step | Action | Details |
| 1 | Check Status | Log in to your GamStop account or contact support to confirm the period has ended. |
| 2 | Contact Support | Call 0800 138 6518 or email [email protected] (10:00–20:00 BST). |
| 3 | Verify Identity | Provide personal details for verification. |
| 4 | Await Confirmation | Processing takes a few days; you will receive a notification. |
| 5 | Cooling-Off Period | 24 hours to potentially cancel the request via your account or support. |
Key Notes
- No Automatic Removal: The exclusion does not end automatically. You must actively contact GamStop.
- 7-Year Extension: If you fail to remove the exclusion, it remains active for an additional 7 years, as stated on the GamStop website:
“Your GamStop exclusion will not be automatically removed at the end of your minimum exclusion period. It will remain in place for a further 7 years unless you take the following steps to remove it” (My exclusion has expired).
What Happens If You Do Not Remove GamStop?
It is critical to understand that GamStop does not deactivate automatically once the exclusion period ends. If you do not take steps to remove the exclusion, it will remain active for an additional 7 years. This means that even if you selected a 6-month exclusion, inaction could result in a total exclusion period of 7 years and 6 months.
This policy is designed to protect users who may still be vulnerable to gambling addiction. However, it also requires users to actively manage their exclusion status. If you plan to resume gambling after the period ends, it is essential to contact GamStop promptly.
Alternatives During the Exclusion Period
While early removal of GamStop is not possible, there are platforms that operate outside the GamStop scheme. These are typically online casinos and betting sites not licensed by the UKGC, often registered in jurisdictions such as Malta, Curaçao, or Gibraltar. These “non-GamStop casinos” are not obligated to adhere to the same rules as UKGC-licensed sites and therefore do not recognise GamStop exclusions.
Key Aspects of Non-GamStop Casinos
- Accessibility: These sites are accessible to users even during a GamStop exclusion period.
- Variety: They often offer a wide range of games, including slots, table games, and live dealer options.
- Bonuses: Non-GamStop casinos may provide more generous bonuses and promotions compared to regulated UK sites.
- Risks: As these sites are not regulated by the UKGC, they may offer less player protection. This includes less stringent measures against underage gambling, less robust responsible gambling tools, and potentially less secure payment methods.
- Responsibility: If you choose to play on such sites, do so responsibly. Set limits and be aware of the risks.
It is worth noting that while non-GamStop casinos provide an alternative, they are not suitable for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. If you are considering gambling during your exclusion, reflect on why you opted for self-exclusion in the first place and seek professional help if needed.
Addressing Common Questions and Misconceptions
1. Can I Remove GamStop If I Move Outside the UK?
- Yes, if you have relocated outside the UK, you can request the removal of your GamStop exclusion. However, this still requires contacting GamStop support and verifying your identity. You may also need to provide proof of your new address outside the UK.
2. What If I Registered for GamStop by Mistake?
- Unfortunately, cancelling a GamStop registration before the period ends is not possible, even if it was done by mistake. You must wait until the chosen period (6 months, 1 year, or 5 years) concludes before requesting removal.
3. Can I Gamble at Land-Based Casinos During a GamStop Exclusion?
- Yes, GamStop applies only to online gambling sites licensed by the UKGC. Land-based casinos and betting shops are not affected by the scheme. However, some land-based operators may have their own self-exclusion schemes, so check with specific venues.
4. Are There Ways to Bypass GamStop?
- Technically, you can gamble at non-GamStop casinos, as mentioned earlier. However, attempting to bypass GamStop on UKGC-licensed sites (e.g., using a VPN or other methods) violates their terms of service and may have legal consequences. It is important to respect the purpose of GamStop and use it as intended—to manage gambling habits.
Responsible Gambling and Support Resources
While this guide focuses on removing GamStop, it is crucial to emphasise the importance of responsible gambling. If you are considering lifting your exclusion, reflect on why you chose self-exclusion in the first place. Gambling addiction is a serious issue, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Here are some support resources:
- Gamblers Anonymous: A global organisation offering support groups for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Visit www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk.
- National Gambling Helpline: A free, confidential helpline available 24/7 for anyone affected by gambling issues. Call 0808 8020 133 (UK).
- BeGambleAware: Provides information and support for responsible gambling. Visit www.begambleaware.org.
Conclusion
Removing GamStop is a straightforward process after the exclusion period ends, but it requires patience and adherence to the outlined steps. Key takeaways include:
- Early removal of GamStop is not possible; you must wait until the exclusion period concludes.
- To remove the exclusion, contact GamStop support (phone: 0800 138 6518, email: [email protected]) and verify your identity.
- A 24-hour cooling-off period follows the removal, during which you can cancel the request.
- Failure to remove the exclusion results in a 7-year extension.
- Alternatives like non-GamStop casinos exist but require caution due to less regulation.
GamStop is a tool designed to assist in managing gambling habits. If you plan to lift your exclusion, ensure you do so responsibly and with a clear understanding of your gambling behaviour. Always prioritise your well-being and seek help if needed.
