The Bank of Ireland has introduced a new voluntary gambling block, allowing customers to have more control over their expenses. Customers can now block debit card transactions to gambling transactions, including online casino transactions, slot machine transactions, and transactions from lottery sites. The block will work for both personal and business accounts. In the coming months, the bank will work to introduce similar options for credit cards. This move puts the Bank of Ireland alongside AIB, EBS, and Revolut, providing consumers with tools to gamble responsibly. This initiative is also in line with the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland’s (GRAI) ongoing initiative to protect consumers by preventing gambling harm. GRAI’s efforts include bank blocks, gambling software, and advertising restrictions. Above all, this initiative will have greater benefit as the National Gambling Exclusion Register is developed. The register will eventually connect licensed operators and a central self-exclusion system.
Addressing Changing Gambling Patterns
This decision comes in light of significant changes in gambling behaviour. Recent Q1 2025 data reveal that 90% of gambling transactions now occur online. Of those, 99% are funded by debit cards. While total gambling expenditure dropped by 2% compared to last year, gambling among 18–25-year-olds surged by 19%. This raises concerns over youth betting habits. Nevertheless, the bank views this tool as an important preventative measure. Compared with other methods, a direct block on transactions offers immediate control to those seeking to limit gambling exposure. Furthermore, the GRAI welcomed the move. They stressed that collaborative efforts between banks and regulators remain essential in addressing gambling-related harm.
Promoting Financial Wellbeing and Community Support
Áine McCleary, Chief Customer Officer at Bank of Ireland, indicated the gambling block is designed to assist customers in making better, more positive financial decisions. It also complements the bank’s wider goal to improve the well-being of the individual and community, in particular in supporting customers in difficult situations. In addition, Oisín McConville of GamblingCare.ie, who spoke of increasing rates of gambling amongst young people, underlined the need for a variety of support services that are easily accessible. Relying on counselling or awareness campaigns alone does not provide a means, whereas transaction blocks provide a physical barrier to impulsive betting. This illustrates yet another positive initiative to protect vulnerable customers and to help them provide better financial sustainability in the long term.
