Gambling support and debit card blocks

At Bank of Ireland, we understand that gambling can affect your finances, relationships, and mental health. We are here to help you with practical tools and confidential support.


Recognising when gambling becomes a problem

Gambling can take many forms, from betting on sports to online casinos or lottery tickets. While it may start as entertainment, it can become harmful when:

  • You are hiding or lying about gambling
  • You are missing work, school or social events
  • You feel anxious, stressed, or unable to stop gambling
  • You are using credit or loans to fund gambling
  • You are struggling to pay for essentials like rent, bills, or food



How Bank of Ireland can help

Gambling blocks on debit cards

Take control by requesting a gambling block on your debit card. This feature helps prevent transactions with gambling operators, including:

  • Online casinos and betting sites
  • Lottery websites
  • High street betting shops (when using your card)

How the block works

The block stops gambling-related payments. This includes:

  • In-store and online transactions (excluding Open Banking)
  • Chip and PIN, including contactless payments
  • Apple Pay and Google Pay

Note: If a company does not use a gambling-related code for its debit card transactions, the transaction may still go through.

To request a block

Simply call us on 0818 200 423 or 01 250 0423 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, excluding bank holidays).

You will need your 16-digit card number. The block takes up to two working days to apply. Available for personal and business debit cards. Credit card blocks are coming soon.

Managing gambling-related debt

If you are struggling with your finances due to gambling, let us know. We might be able to help. Support is available on our Money Worries page.


Additional support services

If you are worried about gambling, speak to us. We will listen without judgement and help you explore options. Everything you share is confidential.


  • Useful websites and tools

    Gambling Care (Ireland)

    Offers advice, support, and information for people concerned about their own, or someone else’s, gambling. Services include residential programmes, counselling (in-person and online), support groups and self-help tools.

    Visit: www.gamblingcare.ie

    Gamblers Anonymous Ireland

    A fellowship of individuals who support each other in recovery from gambling addiction through confidential meetings and shared experiences.

    Samaritans

    Available to talk, judgement-free, about anything that’s troubling you.

    GamCare (UK)

    Offers free and confidential support for anyone affected by problem gambling. Services include live chat, online forums and information about gambling blocking software.

    Visit: www.gamcare.org.uk

    Blocking software

    These tools help restrict access to gambling-related websites and apps.

    iPhone and iPad users can use built-in parental controls to block access.

    It’s best to ask someone you trust to set the password for you.

    Learn more at the GamCare website.


Frequently asked questions