HSBC Gambling Block

Responsible gambling is a cornerstone principle for the UKGC, but this philosophy doesn’t apply only to online casinos. Payment providers and financial institutions such as HSBC enforce a CC gambling ban, creating a cooling-off period for clients. HSBC is only one of the personal and online banking providers that enforce such gambling blocks, disabling users from depositing funds for gambling purposes for 72 hours.

The gambling restrictions enable customers using debit cards or the Pay by Bank app to initiate a ‘Cool Off Period’. During that period, transactions related to gambling will be declined. But that is just the tip of the iceberg of what HSBC offers. Keep reading to learn more!

Why HSBC Offers a Gambling Block

HSBC is a prominent financial institution, fully compliant with UK laws and regulations. It supports the UKGC’s goal to prevent the development of gambling addiction in casino players.

This is not the only UK bank to offer a self-exclusion as a measure to protect its clients from gambling urges. However, it is one of the latest institutions to afford customers a time frame within which they can reconsider their gambling activities. The method is supposed to create positive friction and safeguard customers from further mental health and financial consequences. It’s another step towards the bank’s commitment to inspire safe spending.

How the HSBC Gambling Block Works

The HSBC self-exclusion feature works similarly to the method employed by Revolut blocking for gambling and is available on the bank’s app. Customers can use the HSBC UK mobile app to turn on the self-exclusion feature.

Alternatively, they can request the option be activated through phone banking or make an in-person visit to a local branch. Once the gambling block is activated, attempts to make a transaction for gambling purposes will be prevented for 72 hours. After that time passes, you can lift or extend the ban.

How to Activate HSBC Gambling Block

The process of activating an HSBC gambling block is very intuitive. It makes no difference if you are trying to block gambling sites on iPhone or Android mobile devices. Once activated, the bank will immediately implement the self-exclusion and stop transactions towards a gaming platform. However, you must be an HSBC customer with an active bank account to benefit from this feature. If you are, here is how to use this feature:

• Log into HSBC Mobile Banking App:
  The first step includes logging into your HSBC app using your digital secure key. Once you access the app, you can go to your debit card account. If you do not have the app, download it from the bank’s official website or an app store. The download is free, while the installation takes only a few seconds.
• Apply for Gambling Restrictions:
  Open the “Manage Cards” section on the app and select the “Gambling Restriction” option. After you enter the gambling section tab, toggle the button to ‘On’. If you have joint accounts, each person must set their preferences for gambling restrictions. Repeat the steps if you have more than one card you want to set the gambling block on.
• The Self-Exclusion Starts:
  Once activated, the bank will block gambling-related activities for 72 hours. After it has expired, you can remove the restrictions by moving the toggle to the “Off” position in the ‘Gambling restrictions’ section. You can receive assistance on the app or the feature by visiting your local branch or making a phone call.