The UK gambling scene has undergone changes in the last few years as the UK Gambling Commission has clamped down on the industry. This has led to punters trying new options and non-GamStop casinos are becoming more popular, but what are they?
UK-based gamblers are moving over to these sites because they are looking for more gambling freedom, without the strict betting limits, fewer bonuses, and funding restrictions that are being seen in the UK.
For punters seeking an alternative to the non-Gamstop casino sites, non-UK casinos will be covered in this article.
How GamStop Works
GamStop is a not-for-profit organisation that works with the UK Gambling Commission in the United Kingdom only. GamStop runs a self-exclusion scheme which punters can sign up to for free, and they will then be blocked from using gambling websites and apps run by British gaming companies. The term of the exclusion can be as long as five years.
With the large selection of betting sites available in the United Kingdom, the scheme allows users to set a blanket restriction across the country and put a halt on their betting activities. This can be beneficial if someone is going through a run of losses and psychological urges can take over.
Customers simply have to provide their current and former addresses, alongside any email addresses that were used to sign up for betting sites.
How Non-GamStop Casinos Work
Betting sites not on GamStop are casinos and gaming outlets that are located outside of the UK and they are not subject to GamStop regulations. These sites are still managed by the licensing authority in their own jurisdiction, with Malta and Gibraltar being two examples. Companies are regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority or the Gibraltar Government’s Gaming Division. These non-UK casino sites are still held to a high standard of KYC rules and segregation of client funds from the business are usually standard. One drawback of using these sites can be a lack of third-party support for dispute resolution, but it is up to each user to determine if that is necessary.
UK punters are increasingly choosing these sites because of the many benefits that now exist over GamStop sites. British betting companies are being subjected to stricter rules and those who are more comfortable with their gaming habits will find that the playing experience is less free.
Sites not on GamStop will usually have some form of self-exclusion, but it will not be as long as the five years available in the UK.
Are Non-GamStop Casinos Legal?
Yes, it is 100% legal for gamblers in the UK to bet at non-GamStop casinos. Consumers in the UK have freedom of choice for their online habits and can sign up to these sites if they want to. It is because of restrictions on gambling marketing by the UKGC, that many punters aren’t aware of their options.
If gamblers move to these sites overseas, it is important that they don’t do it simply for a loophole to avoid the GamStop rules. Problem gambling is a serious issue and it can require professional treatment. Bettors should contact the support staff of the non-UK sites to ask about self-exclusion and bet limits if they have a history of problem gambling.
Should You Use Non-UK Casinos?
There are many advantages available to UK gamblers when using the sites that are not subject to the GamStop rules. For customers who are comfortable with their betting habits, they will find that the sites offer more freedom than sites in the UK.
The UK government has been under increasing pressure by social and mental health groups to tackle the problem gambling issue, with one area being stake limits on Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBT). These measures are beneficial for those who have a problem with their gambling, but it also punishes those who don’t. A campaign is now trying to stop all forms of betting advertisements in the country.
Using non-GamStop casinos will usually give you access to a larger range of funding options. The UK gambling scene has seen a ban on funding with credit cards, which is another attempt to curb problem gambling. With non-UK sites you can still use credit cards, digital wallets, and even cryptocurrencies for funding, so there are more options.
The Pros and Cons of Casinos Not on GamStop
With all consumer options, there are usually pros and cons attached, and using a GamStop casino versus non-UK casinos is the same. Each person should weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of both depending on their needs. This is a summary of the important pros and cons:
GamStop Casinos
Pros
- UKGC licensees are listed corporations
- Additional efforts committed to problem gambling
- GBP deposit are standard
- Enhanced consumer protection
- Third-party dispute support
Cons
- Limits on stake sizing and gameplay
- Extensive KYC rules
- No credit card deposits
- No crypto payments
Sites not on GamStop
Pros
- Generous bonus sizing and more frequent
- Less limits and restrictions
- Licensed by their own gaming authority
- Access to self-exclusion scheme
- Wider range of funding options
Cons
- May not provide GBP funding
- UK game titles may not be available
- May be exploited as a loophole for GamStop
Conclusion on Non-GamStop Sites
If you are an experienced gambler there are lots of advantages in using non-GamStop casinos. Customers will find more freedom, and the environment will feel similar to the UK gambling scene years ago, before the clampdown.
Bet sizing and deposits are free from restrictions, but there are also attractive welcome bonuses and rewards. The casino game libraries at overseas sites are often more extensive than the UK sites, which is another consequence of the UKGC marketing rules. Another benefit is the ability to fund account with cryptocurrencies.
If you feel that the pros outweigh the cons for your own needs, then now is a good time to consider the switch to non-UK casinos.
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