Card-blocking feature rolled out by Irish banks to curb problem gambling

With 90% of gambling in Ireland now conducted online and 99% of those transactions funded through debit cards, banks have introduced a card-blocking feature aimed at limiting access for individuals facing gambling-related harm.

The initiative was launched by the Irish Banking Culture Board, in cooperation with AIB, Bank of Ireland, and PTSB. The feature functions as a switch that enables account holders to block debit card payments connected to gambling websites and mobile applications.

The system operates on an opt-in basis. Customers who choose to activate the block can do so directly through their accounts. If they later decide to lift the restriction, banks apply a mandatory cooling-off period before transactions are restored.

Barry Grant, project manager of Extern Problem Gambling, an online support and counseling service, said the introduction of a blanket block has been long requested by those seeking help, reports The Irish Times.

“This is something that we’ve been pushing for and advocating for years,” Grant said. “The blanket blocking is massive. It’s just a switch – all gambling is blocked. Some of our service users would have dozens of online gambling accounts or apps, but they generally have one bank account. If you can cut it off at source, that’s massive.”

Oisín McConville, an All-Ireland winning footballer with Armagh and ambassador for Gambling Care, also commented on the measure. McConville, who has previously spoken about his own gambling addiction, pointed to the role of blocking tools in reducing access.

“Ninety-nine per cent of people who come forward for help as far as gambling is concerned are in crisis, financially and every other way,” McConville said. “With gambling, it’s so hidden that the opportunity is not there [for others to catch it early]. I think this can help.”