Non-Gamstop Casinos in the UK | Checklist with Safe Gambling Sites

The UK authorities are constantly introducing new rules and regulations for online casino gaming. One of the major changes was the GamStop programme. Such changes raise some concerns for players. Can we still play at casinos without Gamstop, and are there any potential risks?

Luckily, there are numerous UK casinos not on GamStop, that can provide a secure gambling experience and responsible gambling resources. These platforms also hold valid licences and legally operate in different jurisdictions, including the UK.

Features of Online Casino Regulation in the UK

The first measures to regulate activities were introduced in 2005. The Law on Gambling Regulation was created. Subsequently, the Regulatory Commission was established. It is responsible for issuing licenses and inspecting casino activities. 

New rules were introduced in 2013, during which the Gamstop programme became particularly popular. The last attempts to make changes were in 2023. This time, however, the authorities do not just want to amend the old law but create a new one. Discussions on this issue are still taking place.

What is GamStop in the UK

In order to enhance control over online casinos and reduce the level of problem gambling, the GamStop programme was created in the UK. The initiators and organizers are the Gamblers Association. However, the main culprit behind the addition of this programme is the Online Casino Regulatory Commission.

The principle of this programme is quite simple. There is an official Gamtop website. A player who wants to participate in this programme needs to register on it. Then they must undergo verification, providing personal information.

After that, the player needs to activate the self-exclusion function and specify the period of validity of this restriction: six months, one year or five years. After that, the self-exclusion will automatically begin. The user’s account will be temporarily frozen at those online casinos where you have already registered. If you want to register at new online casinos, the programme will not allow you to do so. It should be noted that this only works if the online casino that operates in the UK has a UKGC license. 

Disadvantages of GamStop in the UK

Since the inception of the GamStop programme, it has shown its significant drawbacks, both for players and for the online casinos themselves. Firstly, becoming a part of Gamstop network is obligatory for all casinos under UKGC. This leads to more stringent requirements for account verification as well as strict control of players who took part in the programme. Other disadvantages can also be highlighted:

• Resolution on the record and close monitoring of the player’s activity;
• The risk of getting blocked by the casino in case of winning, even if the self-exclusion period has passed.

This is why a significant majority of players choose non-GamStop casinos. Such sites offer players more convenient and flexible conditions without strict verification and tax requirements. In addition, such casinos can be safely played in the UK, even if they hold a different license.

Non-GamStop Online Casinos in the UK

As mentioned earlier, not all online casinos support the GamStop programme. In such online casinos, the player can continue to play safely for real money without the risk of being blocked. However, it is still important to choose safe sites that have a valid license issued by a reputable body. For a stable game with privacy, you can pay attention to the following casinos:

• MyStake;
• Hell Spin;
• LTC Casino.

These casinos have valid licenses from the UK regulators or any other regulator. This allows players to rest assured that they will be playing at an online casino legally and without restrictions. Next, let’s look at each site in more detail.

Hell Spin

The casino started its activities in 2020. Currently, the casino officially operates and provides favorable conditions for players in 200 jurisdictions worldwide. The interface of the official site supports 14 languages. A 24-hour support service offers similar opportunities. Hell Spin online casino has a 3-level loyalty program. Users can get the following recharge bonuses:

• 100% + 100 free spins for the first deposit;
• 50% + 50 free spins for the second deposit;
• 50% + 100 free spins for the third deposit.

Hell Spin Casino operates under the Curaçao license. You can check the license yourself on the official site. The casino also has a program for regular players. If you play regularly, you can be promoted to VIP status.

MyStake

It was founded in 2019 and has established itself as a reliable and promising site from the beginning. The casino offers support to problem gamblers and also holds a Curaçao license. The main advantages of MyStake include:

• Low entry threshold — the minimum deposit amount is only 20 euros;
• Availability of a bonus program — each user can get a 150% bonus for depositing;
• Support for the use of cryptocurrency;
• Mobile compatibility.

A distinct disadvantage of MyStake Casino is the lack of a dedicated app for mobile devices. Instead, you can use the mobile version of the site. This disadvantage is greatly overridden by a number of advantages mentioned above.

LTC Casino

The casino has been operating since 2021. Its activity is carried out under the Curaçao license. The casino’s website has more than 1,300 slot machines, and all games are supplied by verified software providers.

The casino positions itself as a cryptocurrency casino. The most popular coins are supported for replenishment. Unfortunately, the casino has no bonus program for players. However, there is a simplified system of deposit and withdrawal. Thanks to cryptocurrency, players can play without additional fees and restrictions.