Bank of Ireland Initiate Voluntary Debit Card Block on Gambling Sites
This week, the Bank of Ireland announced a significant initiative to assist customers in staving off gambling-related financial issues by enabling voluntary debit card blocks for online wagering activities.
Bank of Ireland Launches Voluntary Debit Card Blocks for Gambling Prevention
The Bank of Ireland is pioneering a proactive approach to problem gambling by providing customers with the option to block their debit cards from being used for transactions with online gambling platforms. This initiative is aimed at individuals who recognize the need for a safeguard against excessive betting.
Customers can voluntarily request this debit card block to prevent any payments to online sportsbooks, casinos, slot games, and lottery operators, thereby enhancing their financial protection. Importantly, the program underscores the bank’s commitment to managing customer welfare for those with a history of problem gambling.
According to a recent report from the Bank of Ireland, an astounding 90% of gambling deposits are conducted online, with a staggering 99% of these transactions executed via debit cards. While the bank reported a 2% decline in overall year-on-year gambling spending during the first quarter, troubling trends surfaced among younger demographics, notably a 19% increase in deposits from individuals aged 18 to 25. Furthermore, men constituted 71% of these betting deposits, prompting the need for mitigation strategies.
County Trends: Wicklow Leads in Increased Gambling Activity
- Wicklow: +37%
- Kilkenny: +24%
- Limerick: +20%
- Laois: +17%
(Statistics based on the first quarter of 2025)
Major Sporting Events Drive Gambling Deposits
The spike in gambling activity is attributed to prominent sporting events in Ireland, including the renowned Cheltenham Festival, one of the premier horse racing events. Each year, thousands of Irish racing enthusiasts travel to England to participate in this four-day event, placing bets through leading sportsbooks, with many renowned trainers such as Willie Mullins showcasing their top horses.
Additionally, the Six Nations Rugby tournament has emerged as another significant betting draw, contributing to heightened gambling deposits in February and March of 2025. This trend reflects the growing intersection between sports enthusiasm and online gambling activity.
Irish customers seeking to implement a debit card block or wanting more information can contact the dedicated helpline at 1818 200 423 for those in the Republic of Ireland or 0345 6016 157 for Northern Ireland residents. Comprehensive details on the new gambling block initiative can also be found on the bank’s official website: www.bankofireland.com/gambling.
Áine McCleary, Chief Customer Officer at the Bank of Ireland, emphasized the initiative’s importance: “Problem gambling can have a devastating effect not just on the individual, but also on families and communities. This initiative is crafted to empower customers to take control of their financial health, aligning with our commitment to enhancing community well-being, particularly for those facing challenging circumstances.”
Oisín McConville from GamblingCare.ie noted the initiative’s significance: “This proactive measure is highly welcomed, especially given the rising gambling expenditures among younger populations. A comprehensive suite of support systems is crucial to address the issue effectively. The introduction of debit card blocks by the Bank of Ireland represents a vital step in safeguarding customers against problem gambling.”
In summary, the Bank of Ireland’s new measure highlights an important trend in the gambling sector focusing on responsible betting and customer protection. This initiative provides customers with the autonomy to manage their gambling expenses while addressing the pressing concerns associated with problem gambling.
Andy Newton, a seasoned journalist in the betting and gambling landscape for over 20 years, specializes in sports betting and is particularly acknowledged for his expertise in horse racing.
