Bank of Ireland introduces card blocks as gambling soars among young adults

Gambling-related spending among young adults in Ireland surged in the first quarter of 2025, prompting the Bank of Ireland to introduce voluntary card-blocking tools aimed at curbing potential harm.

According to newly released figures, gambling expenditure among customers aged 18 to 25 rose by 19% between January and March, even as their total card spending fell by 2% during the same period.

The spike coincided with major sporting events such as the Cheltenham Festival and the Six Nations, which were cited as key drivers of increased betting activity.

Male bettors dominated the gambling demographic, accounting for over 70% of all wagers. Regionally, the highest increases in gambling activity were recorded in Wicklow (up 37%), Kilkenny (up 24%), and Limerick (up 20%). In contrast, betting among those over 65 fell by 8%.

In response, the Bank of Ireland has rolled out a new feature allowing customers to voluntarily block gambling transactions on their debit cards. The block covers transactions at online casinos, slot machine operators, and lottery websites. Initially available for both personal and business debit cards, the feature will be extended to credit cards in the coming months.

The feature was welcomed by gambling support organization GamblingCare.ie. Its representative Oisín McConville noted: “We can see from the latest gambling spend insights that betting amongst younger people is on the rise. To combat the scourge of problem gambling, a wide range of supports is essential to prevent the issue from becoming overwhelming for those impacted.”

“This initiative we are launching is designed to help customers take positive steps to improve control over their finances,” said Áine McCleary, Chief Customer Officer at Bank of Ireland. “Problem gambling can have a devastating effect not just on the person involved, but also on families, friends and loved ones.”