Self-exclusion: how it works
Self-exclusion is the strongest tool for anyone who wants to stop or take a long break. It exists at two levels: with a single operator, and, in many countries, through a national register covering every licensed operator at once. This page explains both in general terms; the details depend on where you live.
Two levels
| Level | What it blocks | Where to arrange it |
|---|---|---|
| Single operator | access to that operator's account | account area or support |
| National register | all operators licensed in that country | regulator or official portal |
Time-out versus self-exclusion
A time-out is a short pause, from a day to a few weeks, after which the account reopens automatically. Self-exclusion lasts longer, often months or years, and usually cannot be reversed early. Some schemes also let you exclude yourself from one category only, such as sports betting.
What self-exclusion does not do
A national register covers only operators licensed in that country. Sites without that licence are outside the scheme and are not blocked by it. Operator-level exclusion covers only that operator. That is why people who exclude themselves often add further steps.
Steps that make it stick
- Ask your bank to block gambling transactions on your cards, where it offers this.
- Install a gambling-blocking app or content filter on your devices.
- Unsubscribe from operators' marketing and delete saved passwords.
- Tell someone you trust, so the decision is shared.
At Woos
If you have an account with Woos, look for time-out and self-exclusion in the account area or ask support. Ask for written confirmation and for any remaining balance to be paid out.
Help
Start with the gambling help service of your country. Gambling Therapy offers free online support internationally, in several languages: gamblingtherapy.org. General guidance is on the responsible gambling page.
After the period ends
When a self-exclusion ends, accounts usually do not reopen automatically; you may need to ask, and some operators apply a cooling-off period. Use that moment to decide calmly whether to return at all. Many people choose to extend the exclusion rather than let it lapse.
Balances and bonuses
On exclusion, operators normally pay out any withdrawable balance and cancel pending bonuses and marketing. Ask for written confirmation of both.