Gambling blocks and self-exclusion: build several barriers

Distinguish closure, exclusion and marketing settings

Closing an account may end one commercial relationship without creating the same protection as self-exclusion. Deleting an app does not necessarily close the account. Unsubscribing removes some communications but does not itself prevent deposits. State clearly when you want self-exclusion because gambling is causing concern, and ask which brands or products the restriction covers. Keep confirmation and the start date. You do not need to finish a bonus first, and resolving an existing balance can be handled separately from restoring access.

Use the national route that actually applies

Denmark's ROFUS provides exclusion within the Danish system and lists covered gambling activities on its official English page. Sweden's Spelpaus covers gambling requiring registration with Swedish licensees. France's ANJ voluntary-exclusion portal and Germany's OASIS system have their own national rules. These services are not interchangeable. Check the official page for current product coverage, available periods, identity documents and what to do if you lack the usual electronic identification. An English information page does not guarantee that every application or support conversation is available in English.

Do not assume a foreign account is covered by your home country's registration. Equally, do not seek an excluded product or unlicensed website as a replacement. If moving between services is becoming part of the problem, tell a support adviser so the plan addresses that behaviour rather than only the first account.

Add device barriers without assuming perfect coverage

Gambling-specific blocking software can restrict access on supported devices. Before installing, check compatibility, price, privacy information, the period selected and whether every device you use needs separate setup. Follow the provider's instructions rather than improvising changes to another person's equipment. Removing gambling apps, bookmarks and promotional feeds can reduce easy entry points, but it is not equivalent to a comprehensive block. If a website remains accessible, do not make a test deposit; ask the blocking service about the coverage and consider another protective layer.

Ask the bank precise questions

A bank may offer a gambling-payment setting, but products differ across countries, institutions and payment types. Ask whether the setting covers cards, transfers and linked wallets, and whether a delay applies before it can be disabled. Do not assume one card's setting protects every account. Consider removing saved payment details from gambling services and arranging essential bills so they are not left exposed to an impulsive payment. For joint finances, obtain advice and agree appropriate safeguards rather than secretly taking control of another adult's credentials or money.

Check confirmation without testing the barrier

Keep the registration receipt and read when protection begins. If the account appears available after that point, record the issue without gambling and contact the relevant operator or authority. Distinguish a login used to view records from an ability to place wagers; the interface alone may not explain which functions are blocked. Do not rely on an assumed expiry date either. National schemes have different duration and removal procedures, so use the official confirmation rather than a calendar guess or a publisher's old summary.

Connect barriers to help

A restriction can create breathing space while urges, debt or relationship strain remain. Gambling Therapy and local support services can help identify further options. StopSpillet provides Danish advice and treatment signposting; a national health service or qualified local professional can explain treatment access elsewhere. Ask about language, eligibility and confidentiality before sharing more than needed. This website does not enrol anyone in a register, provide treatment or promise that a particular combination will prevent every return to gambling.

Common questions

Sources & further reading