The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) regulates the online gambling market within the UK. In recent years, the UKGC has been gradually tightening restrictions on online casino players. This includes increasing times between spins and a proposed cut of the max allowable stake on online slots to just £2 per spin. As a result of these types of restrictions, many people are now starting to play slots not on GamStop sites.
These are non UK casinos that are not regulated by the UKGC, but still legally available to players in the UK. They have many benefits when compared to UKGC-licensed sites, such as larger transactions, bigger bets, more lucrative bonuses, and a wider range of payment options.
How Does GamStop Work?
GamStop is a way in which gamblers can self-exclude themselves from all UKGC-licensed gambling platforms. Problem gamblers can choose the length of time they want to be self-excluded. Every gambling platform that holds a UKGC license needs to be a part of GamStop. Therefore, the gambling regulator utilises GamStop to assist with implementing restrictions on the sector and protect problem gamblers from their habits.
GamStop is not-for-profit, completely free to use, and you can choose to self-exclude yourself for six months, one year, or five years. A minimum exclusion period will be in place and you cannot cancel your self-exclusion until the completion of this period.
While there are benefits to GamStop, it also means that a GamStop casino is restrictive in many ways. The overall experience for someone looking to play their favourite casino games can be dampened due to these extensive rules. Spin timers, wagering restrictions, and a limited selection of payment methods are some of the reasons why casino players prefer to use sites and play slots not on GamStop.
What Are Gambling Sites Not on GamStop?
Non-GamStop gambling sites are those platforms that do not participate in GamStop and are not licensed by the UKGC. They are usually licensed by other regulatory bodies, such as the Malta Gaming Authority or Curacao. It is important to check what licensing a non-GamStop casino possesses to ensure you’re dealing with a secure site.
There are other safety features to look for in an online casino from outside the UK. This includes checking to see if it offers secure payment options, deploys good encryption technology to protect sensitive data, and segregates player funds from the operator’s funds. It is also useful to check if a platform has a good reputation and has been in operation for a while.
Some of the benefits associated with playing on non-GamStop casinos include higher transaction limits and the ability to place bigger bets. You will find more extensive game libraries, although a handful of the major slot developers may not have games on these sites. There may be an extensive list of bonuses and promotions to enjoy, and alternative payment methods not supported at UK casinos, such as credit cards and cryptocurrencies.
Are Casinos Not on GamStop Legal?
People in the UK can legally enjoy non-GamStop casinos. The player still needs to select carefully to ensure they are dealing with a safe site with a good reputation holding a valid license. Selecting a completely unlicensed casino featuring games and slots not on GamStop is completely unadvised, as without proper regulations there’s no way of telling if you’re dealing with a fraudulent online casino.
Non-GamStop sites should never be accessed by problem gamblers who are looking to avoid GamStop self-exclusion protocols. These alternatives should only be considered by players in control of their gambling habits and looking for a less restricted playing experience.
For operators looking to acquire UK players, the legal responsibility is a bit different. These sites cannot directly market to the UK audience and face hefty fines if they are found doing so.
Properly licensed non-GamStop casinos require their games to be fair to play and will provide problem gambler with responsible gaming solutions such as self-exclusion programmes and account restrictions upon request.
Why Try Slots Not on GamStop?
There are many reasons why someone might choose to play slots not on GamStop at online casinos. The experience is usually more relaxing as you do not have to adhere to as many restrictions.
You can use alternative payment methods such as credit cards and cryptocurrencies to make deposits. Currently, GamStop casino sites do not allow credit card transactions. Additionally, many GamStop casinos have strict limits on how much you can deposit in a given period.
Game libraries will often be very extensive on non-GamStop casinos, particularly when it comes to more niche developers. Many GamStop sites will have the same games from the same limited group of developers. With non-GamStop sites, you will often discover thousands of exciting slots that cater to all types of tastes, although your favourites from UK casinos might not always be present.
In terms of the gameplay itself, you will not have to deal with obligatory spin timers or the lack of auto-play features. There are also not going to be as strict limits on betting sizes, so bet freely and at your discretion. Finally, you’ll get access to different bonuses and promotions which can frequently be more generous than their UK counterparts.
Slots Not on GamStop vs UKGC Slots
Both non-GamStop and UKGC-licensed casinos have their pros and cons. To help you decide the ideal fit for your situation, here are the main advantages and disadvantages of both types of platforms:
UKGC-Licensed Sites:
Pros
- Licensed by one of the most respected gambling regulators in the world
- Usually can be relied upon for keeping your funds and data safe
- These platforms are specifically tailored towards players in the UK
- Problem gamblers can self-exclude from all UKGC licensed sites through GamStop
- The biggest developers in the slots space will cater to UK-licensed platforms
Cons
- UK players cannot add funds to their accounts through a credit card
- Strict limits on stake sizes, the time between spins, and auto-play features
- You usually can’t access a casino account or make a withdrawal without extensive verification
Non-GamStop Casinos
Pros
- Offers many different payment methods, including credit cards and cryptocurrencies
- Fewer limits on stake sizes, transactions, bonuses, and gameplay features
- Usually licensed by another respected gambling regulator
- Game libraries are often far bigger and offer innovative games from up-and-coming developers
- Less strict KYC checks with some providers
Cons
- Allows problem gamblers to avoid GamStop self-exclusion
- Less protection for players as the sites are not licensed to operate in the UK
Non-GamStop casinos can be a great alternative to UKGC-licensed platforms for some players. There are many advantages and disadvantages to using their services.
There are often thousands of slots games from countless developers on offer at non-GamStop platforms. You also will have a full range of features and little to no restrictions on how much you can wager.
Conversely, you run the risk of exposing yourself to a fraudulent site if you don’t properly research your options. Problem gamblers registered with GamStop should never consider playing slots at casinos not on GamStop. These providers will not have access to the database that UK providers use to check if you’ve opted for a country-wide self-exclusion. Ultimately it is up to you to know if these sites are right for you. If you’re considering making the switch for the right reasons and not to bypass restrictions on your gambling activity, non-GamStop sites could be an attractive alternative for you.
