Another UK bank set to block gambling transactions

Halifax has become the latest UK bank to block gambling transactions, soon after HSBC announced the same measure just days ago.

UK.- Every jurisdiction is continuously looking for ways to prevent problem gambling. That’s why British banks have decided to step in and give users another tool to avoid it.

For that matter, Halifax has become the latest UK bank to block gambling transactions per request. Its decision follows HSBC’s, which announced the same measure days ago.

The initiative allows users to self-exclude bank cards from gambling. Should they change their minds, they’d still have to wait 48 hours to spend.

The UK bank wants to prevent problem gambling by blocking its distinctive impulsive behaviour.

HSBC’s decision

HSBC announced iGaming transactions may be blocked by those customers that request to do so.

The bank has 14.5 million UK customers and will allow them to avoid spending in the online market.

“We want to help customers manage their finances. That includes introducing new tools that can help control spending,” said Maxine Pritchard, HSBC’s head of financial inclusion and vulnerability.

“The financial sector is a key enabler of the gambling industry. Without them online gambling couldn’t exist,” Dr Heather Wardle, gambling behaviour researcher at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said.