Cyprus has launched the National Self-Exclusion Platform (PSC).
This was developed and managed by the National Betting Authority as part of the country’s Safer Gambling Strategy 2022-2025.
It will allow players to exclude themselves, either for a set period or indefinitely, depending on their individual needs.
While they will be banned from continuing any betting activity, it will allow the player to log into the account and withdraw any funds that are already deposited with the operator.
Ioanna Fiakkou, National Betting Authority President, said: “It is a powerful tool for every player, aiming to promote healthy betting behaviour and the protection of vulnerable groups.
“The development of the National Self-Exclusion Platform reflects the Authority’s commitment to protecting players and creating a sustainable and fair environment for the betting sector.
“Initially, the platform concerns only online betting service providers that hold a Class B license from the Authority, but the platform is dynamic and can add more functionality.”
The process is free and will apply to all kinds of betting services and operators.
In addition to the player being restricted from playing on any active accounts, it will also prevent them from opening any new accounts.
Fiakkou continued: “That is why today we are making a public call to all parties involved to include in the platform-specific groups such as athletes, always in cooperation with the respective federations and state bodies.
“This action will strengthen the fight against match manipulation and enhance transparency in sport, which is high on the Authority's strategic agenda.
“We are particularly pleased that another important goal is taking shape, that we are taking important steps towards fulfilling the goals we set through the Safer Gambling Strategy, strengthening the protective factors of the public, contributing to reducing their vulnerability and enhancing the sustainability of the industry in the right direction.”
Cyprus isn't the only country to be focusing on self-exclusion at the moment though - as the newly launched BetStop in Australia released its register's statistics just before Christmas.
