Customers affected by problem gambling can contact their bank to block their debit card from being used on gambling sites and apps from today.
The iniative is led by the Irish Banking Culture Board, together with member banks AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB.
Research shows that 90% of gambling transactions take place online and 99% of all those transactions are funded by debit cards. Voluntary card blocking is therefore a pivotal instrument in stopping the harm and helping customers to take back control of their finances and wellbeing.
The Common Commitment of Care for Problem Gambling provides consistent and compassionate support to customers affected by problem gambling, reinforcing the banking sector’s role in tackling this important social issue.
The launch event, held at the Dublin Chamber of Commerce, was attended by Minister of State Robert Troy, Department of Finance, alongside representatives from the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland, Gambling Care, and senior leaders from IBCB member banks.
The new framework commits banks to practical measures such as dedicated support phone lines, trained staff, voluntary card blocking, and signposting to trusted external services like Gambling Care and MABS.
Marion Kelly, CEO of the Irish Banking Culture Board, said, “Problem gambling can cause serious harm to individuals, families and communities. IBCB member banks recognise their responsibility to respond with compassion and practical support when customers reach out for help.
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“This Common Commitment of Care ensures that anyone experiencing gambling difficulties will find clear, accessible supports to assistance through their bank. The introduction of a voluntary card block by AIB, Bank of Ireland and PTSB will make an important contribution to those experiencing problem gambling and IBCB calls on other financial services players to put in similar measures”
Minister Troy commended the Irish Banking Culture Board and its member banks for taking this step to address the issue of problem gambling. “By working together to provide meaningful supports, the banking sector is contributing positively to consumer protection.”
The IBCB’s Common Commitment of Care builds on its wider mission to enhance trust, fairness and transparency in Irish banking.
By standardising the way banks support vulnerable customers, the initiative ensures consistency and reliability, while also directing people towards specialist services such as Gambling Care’s 24/7 helpline and MABS’s free debt and budgeting advice.
