Bank of Ireland Introduces Gambling Block Facility
Responsible gambling remains in the headlines and is currently a firm focus around the iGaming sector. Until now, the onus has been on sportsbooks, online casinos and other operators to promote the practice, but the industry is set to receive further backing from an external source.
The Bank of Ireland has announced that it will allow account holders to accept restrictions in terms of gambling transactions. It’s a move that may well be echoed around the financial world, but this isn’t the first time a bank has taken these steps.
Data Analysis
The Bank of Ireland chose to move following an analysis of customer data at the end of 2025’s first financial quarter. Studies revealed that 90% of gambling-related transactions took place online. The statistics also revealed a significant increase in gambling among 18 to 25-year-olds.
With the regulator urging banks to take this type of action, the Bank of Ireland reacted to their findings by introducing the voluntary restriction.
Positive Steps
Speaking on behalf of the Bank of Ireland, Chief Customer Officer Aine McCleary said that the initiative they were launching was designed to help customers take positive steps to improve control over their finances. She added that it also furthered Bank of Ireland’s ambition to improve the financial well-being of their customers, especially those going through difficult times.
In response, Oisin McConville from GamblingCare Ireland stated: “Measures such as this are very welcome. The introduction by Bank of Ireland of gambling blocks is another step in the right direction and will further safeguard their customers.”
Blocking Mechanics
All Bank of Ireland customers will now have the ability to block any gambling-related transactions on their accounts. Those who have never placed a wager and have no intention of doing so, could still consider taking this action as a further safeguard against potential fraud.
Account holders have to make a customer request in order for the block to be put in place, and they can do this by calling a dedicated telephone number. Full details of the new system can be found at the Bank of Ireland website.
Others to Follow?
The Bank of Ireland is not the first financial institution to offer customers the opportunity to block gambling transactions. The move follows the lead taken by Allied Irish Banks and also by the Fintech company, Revolut.
With the regulatory body in Ireland pushing for similar developments elsewhere, the latest news could prompt a host of other institutions to follow. The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland was established as part of the Gambling Regulation Act of 2024, and the new body is looking to introduce some significant changes to the industry.
While urging other banks to implement the block, the GRAI is also working with financial institutions to produce a national gambling exclusion register. This would allow citizens in the Irish Republic to voluntarily exclude themselves from offline and online licensed casino operators.
While there is much discussion about the question of responsible gambling, the GRAI is looking to back up words with positive steps. With their encouragement, the Bank of Ireland has introduced the voluntary block, and it would be no surprise to see others follow.