Non GamStop Casinos

What are Non-Gamstop casinos?

GamStop offers a voluntary, no-cost self-exclusion program for individuals across the UK aiming to curb their online gambling habits. This nationwide internet-based scheme lets users self-exclude from online betting activities for a set duration, which could vary from half a year to five years, or even indefinitely.

Once a person registers with GamStop, the system deters them from engaging in online gambling on platforms licensed in the UK, aiding them in controlling their betting or casino activities.

Conversely, Non-GamStop casinos, as implied by their name, aren't associated with the GamStop self-exclusion program. Since these casinos are based outside of the UK, they aren't required to implement the GamStop system. These platforms permit users to gamble or engage in casino games, even if they are self-excluded through GamStop.

Despite Non-GamStop casinos providing an alternative for those who wish to keep gambling, they pose potential threats to individuals grappling with gambling addiction. This is because these individuals can sidestep the safeguards intended to aid in managing their compulsion to gamble.

What are the main differences between a casino listed on Gamstop on a non gamstop casino?

Let's dive into some details about the main differences between Gamstop and non-Gamstop casinos.

Gamstop Membership

Joining Gamstop offers participants a robust approach to managing their gambling behaviors. By signing up, they gain the ability to self-exclude from all UK online gambling entities partnered with the program. The length of the self-exclusion period can vary, ranging from six months, one year, and even up to five years, based on the individual’s needs. However, casinos not registered with Gamstop lack this self-exclusion option.

Responsible Gambling Tools

Apart from the provision of the self-exclusion feature, Gamstop-affiliated casinos typically support a range of measures to reinforce responsible gambling. Such measures can include deposit thresholds, cool-down periods, and alerts related to the duration spent on the platform. Whereas these comprehensive tools might not be present at non-Gamstop casinos. 

License and Regulation

Casinos that are participants of the Gamstop initiative are governed and licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Conversely, casinos not associated with Gamstop might be regulated by other licensing entities, resulting in undulating degrees of regulation.

Accessibility

Being a Gamstop member might bear certain restrictions on the individual's access to several online casinos, most notably if they have chosen self-exclusion. Players who have self-excluded via Gamstop will be off-limits for all UKGC-licensed online casinos until their exclusion period concludes. In comparison, non-Gamstop casinos, not being subjected to the program, are freely available to players irrespective of their Gamstop status.

Game Variety and Bonuses

While casinos linked and not linked to Gamstop might both have a wide selection of games and incentives, there are pronounced disparities mainly owing to differing regulatory compliances. Casinos not under Gamstop are typically known to attract players with larger and more frequent bonuses and promotions which, while appealing, can increase risks in terms of fair play and financial security. Conversely, Gamstop-affiliated casinos provide a safer environment for UK players, courtesy of their stringent licenses, safeguarding tactics, and strict rules, along with the availability of tools for responsible gambling.

Games at Non GamStop Casino Sites

These platforms typically feature an extensive selection of games. The following types of games are commonplace and you're likely to come across them. 

Slot Games: Presented in numerous styles and themes, slot games frequently offer bonus rounds, complimentary spins, and progressive jackpots.
 
Table Games: You'll often find classic casino favorites such as Poker, Blackjack, Baccarat, and Roulette, which are available in several formats and variations.
 
Live Casino Games: Certain non-GamStop casinos host live dealer games, where you have the opportunity to participate in real-time play with an actual dealer, closely simulating the experience of a physical casino.
 
Video Poker: A fusion of poker and slot games, in this game a hand is dealt to you and the objective is to form the best possible poker hand.
 
Bingo and Scratch Cards: Several platforms feature various bingo games and instant-win scratch card games for a quick fun.
 
Sports Betting: Some non-GamStop casinos not only offer traditional games but also include sportsbooks, allowing you to place bets on a wide range of sports events.

Payments options at Non GamStop Casinos

The payment methods at Non GamStop casinos vary widely to accommodate a global audience for these usually internationally regulated casinos. Here are some common payment methods.

Credit/Debit Cards: Most Non GamStop casinos accept major credit and debit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and sometimes American Express. However, a UKGC rules prevent the use of credit cards for online gambling (which is only applicable to UK licensed operators) - for non UK operators this might not be the case.

E-Wallets: Digital wallets like PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill are commonly used because of their flexibility and quick transaction times. However, some non-gamstop casinos might not offer PayPal due to the company's own restrictive policies on betting and gambling.

Prepaid Cards: Prepaid cards such as Paysafecard provide a measure of privacy and are often accepted at Non GamStop casinos.

Cryptocurrencies: Some Non GamStop casinos accept digital currencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, etc. This method is loved by those who value their privacy while gambling online.
 
Bank Wire Transfers: While not the fastest option, this traditional method of money transfer is accepted at many Non GamStop casinos.

Mobile Payments: Some casinos might accept payment directly from your mobile balance or through applications such as Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Software Providers at Non GamStop Casinos

In terms of software providers, there is a variety of reputable and high-quality ones who often supply games to Non-GamStop casinos. Some of the notable names include:

NetEnt: They are known for their slot games like Starburst, Gonzo's Quest, and Mega Fortune. They also offer table games and live games.

Microgaming: One of the most significant names in the online gambling industry. They are known for setting the world record for the biggest online slot jackpot win, via their game Mega Moolah.

Evolution Gaming: A leading provider of live casino games. They offer classics like blackjack, baccarat, poker and roulette, as well as unique gameshow-style titles.

Betsoft: Known for its 3D slots, which are incredibly immersive and visually pleasing. Some popular titles include The Slotfather, Good Girl Bad Girl, and A Night in Paris.

Pragmatic Play: This provider offers a generous selection of video slots alongside a handful of classic casino games and scratch cards.

Licences of Non GamStop Casinos

Notably, all online casinos licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) must participate in GamStop. The licenses are from different jurisdictions and have different relationships with the GamStop program.

British Gambling Commission

The UKGC is the regulatory body for all gambling activities in the UK. It requires all casinos it licenses to participate in the GamStop self-exclusion scheme. As such, there won't be any UKGC-licensed casinos that are non-GamStop casinos.

Curacao eGaming

Curacao eGaming is a licensing authority based in Curacao, a Caribbean island nation. It grants licenses to many online casinos that operate globally, including those that accept UK players. As it is not a UK-based authority, it doesn't require its licensees to participate in GamStop, meaning many Curacao eGaming-licensed casinos are non-GamStop casinos.

Malta Gaming Authority

The MGA is one of the most respected licensing authorities in the world. Online casinos with an MGA license operate under strict regulations and are often associated with high standards of safety, security, and fairness. However, similar to Curacao eGaming, the MGA is not a UK authority and doesn't require participation in GamStop. Therefore, there are MGA-licensed casinos that are not part of the GamStop program.

Non GamStop Casinos Sites Pros and Cons

Here are several pros and cons of using these casinos.

Pros

Fewer Restrictions: Non-GamStop casinos don't have the strict rules and limitations that GamStop sites have. This can make them more appealing to those who want more flexibility with their betting and gameplay.

Greater Variety: Many gambling sites that don't participate in GamStop are international, providing a diverse range of games from different cultures around the world.

No Automatic Exclusion: Non-GamStop casinos won't automatically exclude you for a certain period, allowing you to play as you please.

Higher Bonuses: Because of less regulation, these casinos often offer generous bonuses and promotions that UKGC-regulated sites might not.

Accessibility: These casinos are often more accessible to players from different countries who can't always join casinos registered with GamStop.

Cons

Potential for Problem Gambling: Without the backup of self-exclusion schemes like GamStop, it can be easy for problem gamblers to fall back into destructive behaviors.

Lack of Customer Protection: The UK Gambling Commission does not regulate non-GamStop casinos, meaning it's more difficult to ensure fair play and protect users. Game outcomes may not be ensured by any trustworthy third party.

Payment/Withdrawal Issues: There may be difficulties with receiving payments as these sites don't always support standard domestic methods for withdrawal and deposit.

Dormancy Fees: Some casinos that aren't on GamStop charge a dormancy fee if your account remains inactive for a certain length of time.

Lesser Self-Exclusion Options: If you wish to stop gambling temporarily, non-GamStop sites might not offer many ways to self-exclude, which can pose an issue.

Is it Legal to Play at Non GamStop Casinos?

It isn't illegal for a player in most jurisdictions to use Non-GamStop casinos. 

However, while not being a part of GamStop doesn't make a casino illegal, many non-GamStop casinos are also not affiliated with recognized regulators like the UKGC or Malta Gaming Authority, and this can present a risk to players. If you gamble with a non-regulated casino, you may lack protections in case something goes wrong.

While participation in Non-GamStop casinos might technically be legal, it's important to note this could potentially circumvent self-imposed restrictions designed to help those dealing with problem gambling. 

Responsible gambling should always be prioritized, and if you've chosen to exclude yourself from gambling activities, it may be worthwhile to respect this decision for the sake of your own wellbeing.

How do We Rate Non-GamStop Casinos?

It's very important to note that in the UK, GamStop participation is considered an essential element of responsible gambling practice. Thus, non-GamStop casinos are not necessarily recommended, as they can potentially enable problematic gambling behaviors. 

Here are some factors we consider when rating these types of casinos.

Licensing and Regulation: Ideally, the casino should be licensed and regulated by a respected authority. Some non-GamStop casinos may have licenses from authorities like the Malta Gaming Authority, the Government of Curacao, or the Gibraltar Regulatory Authority. However, remember that these do not offer the same level of protection as the UKGC.

Security and Privacy: Good casinos use advanced technologies like SSL encryption to protect their website and ensure the privacy of their users. We check if the casino has clear policies about how they manage and protect user data.

Game Selection: We look at the diversity of games available. This could include slots, table games, live casino games, etc. Also we check if the games are provably fair.

Payment Methods: we check whether the casino offers a variety of secure and convenient payment methods, such as wire transfers, card payments, and even cryptocurrency options. Also we look out for whether their withdrawal process is smooth, transparent, and fast.

Customer Support: Good casinos offer fast and helpful customer support, ready to assist users whenever required. We look at whether they offer live chat, email, or phone support, the hours they're available, and the speed of response.

Bonuses and Promotions: Non-GamStop casinos often provide attractive bonuses and promotions. 
Reputation: Finally, a general sense of the casino's reputation is useful. We look at reviews and consider the experiences of other players.

How to choose the right Non GamStop Casinos?

If you're considering Non GamStop Casinos, it's crucial to make your decision wisely to ensure your safety and fair play. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• License and Regulation: Research whether the casino is licensed and by whom. Safe casinos usually have legal permissions from reputable regulators, such as the Malta Gaming Authority or the Curacao Gambling Commission.
• Player Reviews: Look for reviews from other players about their experience with the casino. This can provide insight into the casino's service quality, fair play, and reliability.
• Game Variety: Consider the types and number of games available.
• Payment Options: Review the payment options the casino offers and the processing times for deposits and withdrawals. They should offer secure and convenient options, and ideally, there should not be excessive fees associated with transactions.
• Customer Service: Check out the casino's customer support. Ideally, they should have a 24/7 support team that can be reached through multiple channels (like email, live chat, or phone).
• Security: The online casino should use state-of-the-art technology like SSL encryption to protect your personal and financial information.
• Bonuses and promotions: Look for casinos that provide a good balance of bonuses, such as sign-up bonuses, deposit bonuses, and regular promotions for established players.
• Responsible Gambling Policies: Even if they're not registered with GamStop, a casino should still have responsible gambling policies in place. These might include things like deposit and loss limits, time checks or cooling-off periods.

It's important to mention that if you're a problem gambler or feel you may be developing an issue with gambling addiction, a non-GamStop casino may not be the best choice for you. Always seek help if you're struggling with problem gambling. There are many resources available, including GamCare and Gamblers Anonymous.

How to start playing at Non-Gamstop UK Casinos

Choose the Casino From Our List

The first step is to determine which Non-Gamstop UK Casino you'd like to play at. You can use various parameters to decide, such as the games on offer, the casino's reputation, bonuses and promotions, customer support, and payment methods.

Complete Registration Process

Once you've chosen a casino, the next step is to register an account. This process is usually simple and straightforward:

• Click on the "Sign up" or "Register" button that you'll see on the casino's homepage.
• Fill out the registration form with required details like your name, email address, and date of birth. You might also need to create a username and password.
• Some casinos may ask you to confirm your email address by sending you a confirmation link. If this is the case, check your email and click the link to verify your account.

Read the Terms and Conditions

Before you start playing, be sure to read through the site's Terms and Conditions. This document will contain important information about the casino's policies on payments, bonuses, wagering requirements, and more.

Make Your First Deposit

After you've read and agreed to the Terms and Conditions, you can make your first deposit:
Navigate to the "Banking" or "Cashier" section of the casino.

Choose your preferred payment method (e.g., credit/debit card, bank transfer, e-wallets like PayPal or Skrill).

Enter the amount you wish to deposit. Keep in mind that most casinos will have minimum and maximum deposit limits.

In some casinos, your first deposit might qualify you for a welcome bonus. If this is the case, make sure to understand what these bonuses entail and the conditions you need to meet to redeem them.

Select a Game to Play

The final step is to choose a game you'd like to play. There's a wide variety of options available to you, including slot machines, blackjack, roulette, poker, and more.

Are Non-UKGC Casinos & Non GamStop Casinos the same?

Non-UKGC casinos and non-GamStop casinos are not necessarily the same, but they can overlap. Here's what each term means.

Non-UKGC Casinos: The "UKGC" in the term refers to the United Kingdom Gambling Commission, which is the regulatory body for gambling in the UK. UKGC-licensed casinos are required to follow strict guidelines that safeguard players' rights, promote responsible play, and prevent illegal activities. So, non-UKGC casinos are ones that do not hold a license from the UKGC. They could hold a license from another jurisdiction, such as Malta, Gibraltar, or Curacao. These casinos are not under the jurisdiction of the UKGC and therefore do not have to follow its rules and regulations.

Non-GamStop Casinos: GamStop is a self-exclusion program in the UK that allows problem gamblers to limit or stop their gambling activities. All online casinos licensed by the UKGC are required to participate in GamStop. If a casino is not part of the GamStop program, it means it's a non-GamStop casino. Usually, these are casinos licensed in jurisdictions outside of the UK.

In summary, while non-UKGC and non-GamStop casinos can sometimes refer to the same casinos, this isn't always the case. Non-UKGC casinos refer to those not regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, while non-GamStop casinos refer to those not participating in the UK's self-exclusion program.

Mechanisms to Self-exclude from UK Casinos

Self-exclusion is a process that allows those who feel they are struggling with gambling addiction to voluntarily ban themselves from gambling activities. In the UK, there are several mechanisms and organizations to assist with this process. Here's more detail on each of the organizations.

GamCare

This organization offers free information, support, and counseling for anyone affected by problem gambling in the UK. Though they don't specifically manage a self-exclusion service, they provide assistance in getting in touch with the right services and can help guide individuals through the self-exclusion process.

GamBan

Gamban is an app you can install on your electronic devices that blocks access to thousands of gambling websites and apps worldwide. This tool can be useful for self-exclusion as it removes the temptation to gamble online.

GamBlock

Similar to Gamban, GamBlock is a software that blocks access to online gaming websites. It uses sophisticated analyses that are constantly updated to block new gaming sites that appear online.

GambleAware

GambleAware is a charity that funds research, education, and treatment services to help to reduce gambling-related harms in Great Britain. They provide information to help individuals make informed decisions, and guide individuals to support, including self-exclusion options.

GamCheck

GamCheck is a tool that lets you check real-time online operator sites that are licenced by the UK Gambling Commission. It provides accurate data about online casinos, including where and how to self-exclude.

MOSES (Multi-Operator Self Exclusion Scheme)

MOSES is a free service that assists individuals to self-exclude from multiple betting shops (bookmakers) in their chosen area. By participating in this scheme, an individual effectively bars themselves from all the participating betting shops in their selected area for a minimum period of 12 months.

Before committing to self-exclusion, it might be worth considering advice from professionals or from a counsellor trained in addictions, to ensure you have support in place to maximise the effectiveness of the decision.

Remember, while tools and schemes like these can be a big help, the first step in overcoming a gambling problem is recognising that you need assistance. Reaching out to organizations like these and asking for help can be a significant first step.