Payment service provider PayPal introduced a new update to its platform that gives customers in the UK and US the option to block online gambling transactions.
However, as the pressure increases to curb problem gambling, especially in the UK, many payment methods are either being banned, like credit cards or increasing their protection, which is the case with PayPal.
The new option is intended to give all Paypal customers the option to completely block all transactions to any gambling operator and even gambling-related content, such as sites that offer gambling tips, intermediaries who place bets, or other organised forums.
It also covers games of chance or skill, which include an entry fee and a prize, and of course, casino games such as table games and slot machines, whether they are physical or virtual machines.
PayPal is so thorough that lottery tickets or other bets made at shops can be included as gambling transactions where the blocking software can be used.
Although for some, this might sound exaggerated, PayPal conducted an internal review after identifying some of its users abusing PayPal to circumvent credit card limits to fund their playing.
Gambling blocking platform Gamban commented about the announcement: “PayPal offering its users the option to block gambling transactions is a welcome addition to the gambling recovery toolkit.
Between blocking gambling transactions at your bank and PayPal, blocking online gambling with Gamban, self-excluding yourself with Gamstop and seeking support from GamCare, you’ll give yourself the best chance at recovery.”
Find more information about responsible gambling here, as well as support channels should you or someone you know needs.