Keeping Online Casino Fun and Safe
Playing at online casinos should always be a fun and entertaining experience. To make sure it stays that way, every UK-licensed online casino is required to implement a range of safety measures to promote responsible gambling and keep you in control.
These rules and requirements are set and enforced by the Gambling Commission to ensure that casino operators provide the necessary tools and services to protect players.
At Comparasino, we’re strong advocates for safe gaming. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and resources to enjoy gambling responsibly. We regularly feature articles from responsible gambling experts on our blog, like insights from Robert Mabbett, Engagement Director at BetterChange.
Staying in Control: Setting Boundaries While Playing
Self-awareness and setting personal limits are essential when gambling online. Even if you don’t have a gambling problem, putting boundaries in place helps you manage your time and spending.
If you’re looking to set some limits—or need help managing your gambling habits—here are the key tools available at every UK-licensed online casino:
1. Session Limits (Reality Checks)
Session limits are notifications that pop up after you’ve been playing for a set period. They serve as gentle reminders to take a break or stop playing altogether.
2. Loss Limits
Loss limits help you avoid “chasing losses” by capping how much you can lose in a session. Setting a loss limit can help you manage your spending and stay within budget.
3. Deposit Limits
Deposit limits restrict how much money you can add to your casino account within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly). This helps you stay within your pre-planned budget.
4. Self-Exclusion
If you feel that gambling is becoming a problem, self-exclusion allows you to block yourself from accessing a casino site for a set period—usually from one to five years. During this time, you won’t be able to log in, deposit, or play.
5. Cooling-Off Periods
A cooling-off period temporarily blocks access to your account, allowing you to take a break from gambling for a few days or weeks. Once the period ends, your access is restored automatically.
How to Set Limits on Your Casino Account
Setting limits is simple and typically follows these steps:
- Log in to your online casino account.
- Navigate to your account settings.
- Look for the “Responsible Gambling” section.
- Select and set your desired limits.
- Save your changes.
Most casinos let you update these limits at any time, except when a limit has already been exceeded—you’ll need to wait for the limit period to expire before adjusting it.
Safe Gambling Checklist
Before you start playing, it’s a good idea to go through this checklist to make sure you’re gambling responsibly:
- ✅ You are over 18 and playing at a UK-licensed casino.
- ✅ You’ve set a gambling budget and stick to it.
- ✅ You’ve activated limits to avoid overspending.
- ✅ You take breaks and log out when prompted by session reminders.
- ✅ You give yourself a time-out if you feel you’re playing too much.
- ✅ You seek help from support services if you suspect a gambling problem.
Spotting Problem Gambling: Warning Signs
Gambling addiction can be challenging to recognize, especially in yourself. Here are some red flags to watch out for:
- 💸 Spending more money than you can afford to lose.
- 🏦 Using money meant for bills or essentials to gamble.
- 💰 Borrowing money or selling belongings to fund gambling.
- 👥 Strained relationships or neglecting responsibilities.
- 🚪 Using gambling as a way to escape stress or personal issues.
- 🍻 Gambling under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- 🕵️ Hiding your gambling activity from friends and family.
- 😟 Feeling anxious or depressed when you’re not gambling.
- 🔁 Chasing losses by placing more bets.
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s crucial to take action.
Getting Help: Support and Resources
If you think you may have a gambling problem, taking a break from online casinos is the best first step. Set cooling-off periods or self-exclude from the sites you use. Talk to someone you trust, and reach out to professional support organizations.
Here are some trusted UK resources:
Blocking Casino Sites Completely
If you want to take further action beyond self-exclusion, consider installing software that blocks access to gambling websites entirely:
GAMBAN
- Blocks access to all gambling sites and apps.
- Available on multiple devices for as little as £1 per month.
NET NANNY
- Internet filtering software that blocks gambling sites.
- Covers up to five devices for around £1 per device per month.
Taking these extra precautions can help you maintain control and stay on top of your gambling habits.
Remember: You’re Not Alone
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, don’t hesitate to seek help. There’s support available, and taking the first step toward recovery is a positive and courageous decision. Stay safe and gamble responsibly.