Non-GamStop Sites, What They Don't Tell You!
What Is GamStop?
GamStop, a self-exclusion tool
GamStop launched in 2018 and offers players the ability to exclude themselves from UK Gambling Sites, with over 500,000 players registered.
In March 2022, the UK Gambling Commission made it a compulsory part of the licensing agreement that operators must be part of the scheme and display it on site.
Once registered, a player can then exclude themselves from all online bookmakers and casinos, as well as stop themselves from registering at new gambling sites.
Benefits Of GamStop Sites
- Ability to self-exclude if having gambling-related issues
- Self-Exclusion covers all UK online gambling sites
- All Gamstop sites adhere to UK Gambling Commission rules
- Players are protected by UK law against criminal activity.
What Is A Non-GamStop Site?
A non-GamStop site is an online gambling site that does not hold a U.K. Gambling License (UKGC). When online sportsbooks and casinos apply for a license in the U.K., the sites must be affiliated with GamStop as part of their license agreement, so in simple terms: No U.K. License, No GamStop!
Players will see that some online gambling sites have licenses awarded by the Gambling Commissions in Curacao, Malta or Gibraltar. However, due to different legislation, sites that receive a license from these countries are not required to use GamStop or adhere to U.K. rules.
We believe players should only visit UK-licensed online Bookmakers or Casinos for the best and most secure iGaming experience.
Why Do Players Go To Non-Gamstop Sites?
There are multiple reasons why players visit and play at non-GamStop gambling sites.
- To Bypass Self-Exclusion
If a player has self-excluded, they are unable to access or sign up to an online gambling site in the U.K. However, they can bypass this by joining a site that is licensed outside of the U.K. - Weaker Verification Methods
The U.K. features some of the most stringent ID checks in the gambling industry, including "Know Your Customer" (KYC). Non-GamStop sites do not require KYC to be used, so it is far easier to join these sites without the proper ID documentation, lending itself to abuse by fraudulent players. - Larger Bonuses
Once again, U.K. law restricts the amount of bonus funds a player can claim, whereas non-GamStop sites can offer larger rewards. However, turnover requirements tend to be tougher than those in the U.K., so returning a profit is almost impossible. - More Game Choice
Since June 2023, the U.K. Gambling Commission has enforced a 99.9% Return To Player (RTP) on all online slot machines, so although you may find a bigger range of games, many of these will not be available in the U.K. as they do not meet the legal RTP level and thus offer less frequent wins. - More Payment Options
U.K. gambling sites only allow secure payment options for the safety of the player and their personal information. Non-GamStop sites can include all sorts of payments, including Crypto, which are far less secure.
So Non-Gamstop Sites Are Great Then?
No, far from it!
As much as the Gambling Commissions of Curacao, Malta and Gibraltar have high standards when it comes to licensing online gambling sites, players from the U.K. will have no legal framework to fall back on.
If something were to happen, such as fraudulent behaviour, a data breach or if the site were to close down, you will have no legal support to fall back upon, as the jurisdiction for the site is in another country, with the U.K. Gambling Commission having no power to help you retrieve lost funds.
Important Things To Remember!
Here at www.bookiesbonuses.com, we ONLY feature UK-licensed online gambling sites, which means that all sites featured are affiliated with the GamStop self-exclusion tools.
We believe it is important to have full control over your gambling at all times, along with the protections that the UK Gambling Commission provide. However, if you do want to visit and potentially play at a Non-GamStop site, follow these basic rules to protect yourself.
Check That The Site is Licensed
If a site does not hold a U.K. Gambling Commission license, see if they hold a license from another recognised Gaming Authority, such as those based in Curacao, Malta or Gibraltar. It will add a level of credibility to the site. However, players should remember that they will not be covered legally if issues arise.
Never Use An Unlicensed Site
It may be stating the obvious, but never sign up for a non-licensed gambling site. Data is king when it comes to fraudulent behaviour, so don't risk it, or you could see more than your initial £10 deposit being withdrawn from your bank account!
Check The Sign-Up T&CS
New customer sign-up offers are strictly governed in the U.K. Outside of the UKGC's jurisdiction, it's the wild west as anything goes. The promise of large bonuses is usually in tandem with unachievable turnover/wagering requirements designed to take your money without a bonus in return. So, check T&Cs before joining to see if the bonus is genuine.
Read Reviews
Reviews are key. Nothing is stopping you from playing at a Non-GamStop/Non-UK Licensed gaming site, but if you do, make sure to read multiple reviews first. Forearmed is forewarned in this case.
Use Responsible Gambling Tools
Although GamStop is not an option for these sites, check to see if safer gambling options, such as deposit limits, cool-down periods and loss limits are available.
And Finally....
If the gambling site has no license, bad bonus terms and no positive reviews, avoid it like the plague!
Non-GamStop Sites - FAQ
There are multiple agencies and online tools to help if you feel you have issues relating to online gambling:
Click any of the links for further information:
GamStop
Online self-exclusion tool used by over 500,000 players. Just register and set your exclusion period.
GamCare
Gambling support via phone call, online chat or even locally in person. (Tel: 0808-8020-133)
GambleAware
Online support and advice on how to control or stop gambling
National Gambling Clinic
NHS-based support and help with gambling addiction
No, using a non-Gamstop gambling site in the U.K. is not illegal.
However, by using a non-licensed gambling site, you will not have the same legal protections as you would with a licensed site. Some online sites also use geo-blocking to stop players from the U.K. from visiting the site.
The team at www.bookiesbonuses.com thoroughly recommend that you only visit and play at online gambling sites licensed by the UKGC.
The UK has the most stringent rules for online gambling in the world, which offer the best protection to players and their data. All UK licensed sites are GamStop-affiliated, which also adds a layer of protection to players who may find they have problems caused by gambling.
