In recent years, the number of online gamblers in the UK looking for casinos not on GamStop has increased significantly. These platforms offer an alternative to UKGC-licensed casinos, especially for players who have registered with GamStop but later want to continue gambling. In this article, we’ll explore what these casinos are, how they work, their pros and cons, and important factors to consider before playing.
What Is GamStop?
GamStop is a free self-exclusion program in the UK that allows players to voluntarily block themselves from all online gambling sites licensed by the UK Gambling non GamStop gambling sites Commission (UKGC). Once registered, users are unable to access these sites for a set period (6 months, 1 year, or 5 years).
While this is a valuable tool for many dealing with problem gambling, some players eventually seek alternatives, especially after their financial situation or mental health has improved. This is where casinos not on GamStop come into play.
What Are Casinos Not on GamStop?
Casinos not on GamStop are online gambling platforms that operate outside the jurisdiction of the UK Gambling Commission. As a result, they are not required to integrate GamStop self-exclusion into their systems. These casinos are usually licensed in other jurisdictions such as:
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Curacao
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Malta (sometimes)
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Cyprus
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Costa Rica
Players who are blocked by GamStop but still wish to gamble online often turn to these offshore platforms.
Features of Non-GamStop Casinos
Here are some common features of these casinos:
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No GamStop restrictions: Players can sign up even if they are on the GamStop exclusion list.
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High bonuses: Many of these sites offer large welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions.
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Cryptocurrency options: Some support Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital currencies.
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Flexible KYC policies: The identity verification process can be less strict than UK casinos.
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Sports betting and casino games: They often offer a full suite of gambling options, including slots, table games, and live betting.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
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Open to self-excluded UK players
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Wide range of bonuses and promotions
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More lenient verification processes
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Accept multiple currencies, including crypto
❌ Cons:
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Lack of UKGC oversight
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May not offer strong responsible gambling tools
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Potential for slower withdrawals
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Risk of unlicensed or unsafe operators
Is It Legal to Play at Casinos Not on GamStop?
It is not illegal for UK residents to play at offshore casinos. However, these platforms are not licensed by the UKGC, meaning they are not held to the same regulatory standards. This can raise concerns about fairness, customer protection, and problem gambling support.
Tips for Choosing a Safe Non-GamStop Casino
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Check the license – Make sure the casino has a legitimate license, such as from Curacao eGaming.
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Read reviews – Look for player feedback and expert reviews before registering.
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Verify withdrawal policies – Understand the terms for payouts and any limits or fees.
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Use responsible gambling tools – Some sites offer their own tools like deposit limits or self-exclusion.
Final Thoughts
Casinos not on GamStop can be appealing for players looking for more freedom or those who want to gamble again after self-exclusion. However, these sites come with both opportunities and risks. It’s crucial to do thorough research and always gamble responsibly.
