In the UK, GamStop is a popular self-exclusion program designed to help individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Once registered, players are automatically blocked from accessing gambling websites licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). However, some players look for ways to gamble even during their exclusion period — this is where casinos not on GamStop come into play.
In this article, we’ll explain what these casinos are, why people use them, and what you should consider before playing at one.
What Is a Casino Not on GamStop?
A casino not on GamStop is an online gambling site that is not licensed by the UK Gambling Commission and therefore not part of the GamStop self-exclusion scheme. These casinos are often new non GamStop casinos operated by international companies and may be licensed in other jurisdictions, such as Curaçao, Malta, or Gibraltar.
These platforms offer similar games to UKGC-licensed casinos — including slots, poker, blackjack, and sports betting — but they allow access to UK players even if they are registered with GamStop.
Why Do Players Choose Casinos Not on GamStop?
There are several reasons why some UK players seek out these non-GamStop casinos:
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Bypass Self-Exclusion: Some individuals want to continue gambling despite having excluded themselves via GamStop.
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Fewer Restrictions: Non-UK casinos may offer higher deposit limits, fewer verification steps, and fewer restrictions on bonuses.
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Crypto Gambling: Many offshore casinos accept cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which are not widely supported by UKGC-licensed operators.
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Diverse Game Selection: These platforms sometimes offer a broader range of games or software providers.
Are Casinos Not on GamStop Legal?
This is a gray area. While it’s not illegal for UK residents to play at offshore casinos, the operators themselves are not legally allowed to target UK customers unless they are licensed by the UKGC.
Players should understand that by choosing to gamble at these sites, they forfeit the legal protections offered by UK regulation — such as strict fairness rules, dispute resolution services, and guaranteed access to safer gambling tools.
Risks of Using Non-GamStop Casinos
There are several risks to consider before using these platforms:
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Lack of Regulation: Many non-GamStop casinos operate in less strictly regulated environments, increasing the risk of unfair practices.
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Weak Player Protection: Self-exclusion, deposit limits, and responsible gambling tools may be minimal or nonexistent.
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Limited Oversight: If you have a dispute or issue with the casino, you may have little recourse.
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Problem Gambling: Using these casinos while on a self-exclusion program may indicate a serious gambling problem that needs attention.
Final Thoughts
Casinos not on GamStop can be attractive to UK players looking for more flexibility or to bypass restrictions. However, they come with serious risks — especially for those struggling with gambling addiction. If you’re considering using one of these platforms, make sure you fully understand the trade-offs, and consider seeking help if you’re trying to gamble while on self-exclusion.