Bank of Ireland has introduced a new feature that allows customers to block gambling transactions on their debit cards. This is to help those with gambling habits take control of their finances by blocking access to gambling sites.
Once you opt in to this service, the block will prevent any debit card payments to gambling operators. This includes not just traditional bookies but also online casinos, lottery sites and slot machine portals. The bank sees this as an important step in supporting the financial and mental wellbeing of those with gambling issues.
The move comes after a recent Bank of Ireland analysis of gambling trends. Our Q1 data shows that 90% of all gambling transactions are online and 99% of those are done by debit card. While overall gambling spend was down 2% on last year, gambling among 18-25 year olds was up 19%.
The figures also show a gender split, with 71% of gambling transactions made by men. Regionally, there were big increases in several counties: Wicklow up 37%, Kilkenny up 24%, Limerick up 20% and Laois up 17%. These were all during big sporting events like the Cheltenham Festival and the Six Nations rugby tournament.
The debit card block is available for personal and business accounts and the bank has confirmed it will roll out to credit cards soon. Customers can contact the bank to activate the block – Republic of Ireland customers can call 1818 200 423 and Northern Ireland customers can call 0345 6016 157. More information is available on the bank’s website: www.bankofireland.com/gambling.
Áine McCleary, Chief Customer Officer at Bank of Ireland said problem gambling has consequences far beyond financial strain. “It affects families, relationships and entire communities. This is one of the ways we’re helping our customers get back in control and get their financial health back on track,” she said.
Oisín McConville of GamblingCare.ie welcomed the move saying that the increase in gambling among younger demographics means we need robust support systems. “This is a big step forward. Having tools like gambling blocks available means people have a way to manage their behaviour before it gets out of control,” he said.
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