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The Bank of Ireland has added a new feature to help people stay safe from gambling harm. Customers can now block gambling transactions on their accounts. This move is part of a bigger plan in Ireland to protect users from the risks of gambling.
The step follows efforts by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), which is working closely with banks and payment services to help people who want better control over their money.
More Banks Join the Fight Against Gambling Harm
The Bank of Ireland isn’t alone. Other financial providers like AIB, EBS, and Revolut already offer a similar feature. These blocks help stop any payment from going to gambling sites or apps.
This is useful for people who are trying to stop gambling or want to avoid falling into a habit. It’s also a helpful tool for families and young adults who want better financial discipline.
The GRAI shared that even more banks are expected to add this feature soon. They also said that these tools are just one part of a wider plan to reduce gambling risks in Ireland.
What Else Is Being Done to Reduce Gambling Harm?
Besides banking blocks, the GRAI is also pushing for:
- Gambling-blocking software that can be installed on devices
- Less gambling ads on websites and apps
- More support for people who want to self-exclude
The regulator’s website has guides and advice for anyone who needs help or wants to learn more about staying safe from gambling.
Also, licensed gambling companies in Ireland are required to offer their own self-exclusion systems so that people can remove themselves from gambling platforms when needed.
A National Register to Help People Stay Away from Gambling
One of the biggest steps Ireland is taking is creating a National Gambling Exclusion Register. This register will allow people to self-exclude from all online gambling platforms at once.
It is being built by the GRAI and will become a mandatory part of the license agreement for all gambling companies. That means, if someone signs up for the register, no online betting site can allow them to play.
The GRAI said:
“The establishment of a National Gambling Exclusion Register is an important step forward in helping people experiencing gambling harm.”
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