Gambling should be an enjoyable form of entertainment. However, it can become harmful when not managed properly.
This Responsible Gambling Guide from BestPicksSports explains the tools offered by licensed betting operators, how to stay in control, and where to seek help if you or someone you know is affected by problem gambling.
1. Deposit Limits
Set a Monthly, Weekly, or Daily Betting Budget
Deposit limits allow you to cap how much money you can add to your betting account within a chosen time period.
Most licensed sportsbooks offer adjustable limits such as:
- Hourly
- Daily
- Weekly
- Monthly
These controls help ensure your spending remains within a comfortable and responsible range.
Can you change deposit limits?
Deposit limit increases do not apply immediately. Most operators impose:
- A minimum 24-hour cooling-off period, or
- Waiting until the next calendar month
This protects users from making impulsive changes during emotionally charged moments.
2. Time Management & Session Notifications
Stay Aware of How Long You’ve Been Betting
Many operators provide session timers or notifications that alert you once you have been betting for a specific period (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 minutes).
These reminders help prevent long, unplanned betting sessions that can lead to overspending.
3. Using Your Account History
Track Your Activity, Deposits, and Profit/Loss
Every reputable betting site includes a detailed account history, allowing you to review:
- Deposits
- Withdrawals
- Bets placed
- Wins and losses
Some operators also offer adjustable profit and loss dashboards to help monitor your behavior over time.
4. Self-Evaluation
Identify Whether Your Gambling Is Becoming Risky
Self-evaluation involves answering key questions honestly to assess your gambling habits.
Common self-assessment questions include:
- Do you gamble more often than planned?
- Do losses make you feel stressed or frustrated?
- Do you hide gambling activity from others?
- Do you chase losses?
- Has gambling affected your relationships or responsibilities?
If these questions raise concerns, consider professional help or self-exclusion (details below).
5. Self-Exclusion
Temporarily or Permanently Block Access to Betting Sites
Self-exclusion is a legally required tool offered by all licensed operators. It allows you to block access to your betting account for:
- 1 year
- Up to 5 years
- Or permanently, depending on the operator
During this period, the operator cannot reopen your account or allow you to create new ones.
While self-exclusion is effective, individuals with stronger gambling urges may benefit from device-blocking software such as:
- Gamban → https://gamban.com/
- Gamblock → https://www.gamblock.com/
These tools block gambling websites across all devices.
6. Legal Requirements & Player Protection
Regulations require betting operators to implement safety measures, including:
KYC (Know Your Customer)
Operators verify your identity to prevent fraud and underage gambling.
Proof of Income Checks
Some sportsbooks request financial documentation to ensure customers are gambling within their means.
Restrictions on VIP Programs
Many operators have limited or removed VIP schemes due to responsible gambling concerns.
Credit Card Restrictions
Several jurisdictions ban gambling with credit cards, ensuring customers cannot bet with borrowed money.
7. Support Services for Problem Gambling
If you or someone close to you is struggling with gambling, help is available 24/7 from several trusted organizations.
GambleAware
Free, confidential support for anyone worried about gambling.
Website: https://www.gambleaware.org/
Helpline (UK): 0808 8020 133
GamCare
Provides professional advice, counseling, and live chat support.
Website: https://www.gamcare.org.uk/
Helpline: 0808 8020 133 (24/7)
Gamban (Device Blocking Software)
Blocks online gambling sites and apps across computers and mobile devices.
Website: https://gamban.com/
Gamblock (Website Blocking Tool)
Long-established gambling-blocking software updated regularly.
Website: https://www.gamblock.com/
Gamblers Anonymous
Peer-support group for compulsive gamblers.
Website: https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk/
Phone: 02073 843040
Gam-Anon
Support for family members affected by someone else’s gambling.
Website: https://www.gamanon.org.uk/
Gordon Moody Association
Provides residential treatment for severe gambling addiction.
Website: https://gordonmoody.org.uk/
Phone: 01384 241292
8. Debt Support Resources
Problem gambling often leads to financial pressure. These organizations offer free and confidential support:
National Debtline
Free and independent debt advice.
Website: https://www.nationaldebtline.org/
StepChange Debt Charity
Provides personalized debt management plans and expert support.
Website: https://www.stepchange.org/
Debt Support Trust
Helps identify appropriate debt solutions.
Website: https://www.debtsupporttrust.org.uk/
FAQ
What is responsible gambling?
Responsible gambling means maintaining control over your betting activity and using operator tools to stay within safe limits.
What tools help me stay safe?
Deposit limits, time reminders, account history, self-evaluation tools, and self-exclusion programs.
Can sportsbooks block me from gambling?
Yes. Operators can close your account or enforce self-exclusion if necessary.
Is self-exclusion reversible?
No. Once initiated, operators cannot remove the restriction during the exclusion period.
Where can I find help for gambling addiction?
Trusted resources include:
1. GambleAware
2. GamCare
3. Gamblers Anonymous
How do I block gambling websites on all my devices?
Tools such as Gamban and Gamblock can restrict access across phones, computers, and tablets.