Barclays introduces new mobile measure to protect problem gamblers
Barclays has launched a new feature allowing customers using its mobile app to "turn off" spending with certain types of retailers.
The bank has broken different retailer types into five categories: including groceries, restaurants, petrol, premium rate websites and phone lines – and gambling.
Barclays was advised by several groups, including the Money Advice Trust, and the measure means any payments falling within a “turned off” category will be automatically declined.
Barclays Managing Director Catherine McGrath said: “We are always looking for new ways to support our customers and make it easier for them to manage their finances.”
GambleAware CEO Marc Etches said: “GambleAware welcomes this initiative by Barclays, which we hope will encourage other banks to do the same.
“There are 340,000 problem gamblers in Britain and a further 1.7 million at risk and initiatives like this can play an important role in helping to reduce gambling-related harms.”
In October, Letou CEO Paul Fox suggested a similar policy during an exclusive interview with Gambling Insider.
Gambling Insider delivers the latest industry news, in-depth features, and operator reviews that you can trust. Our team combines rigorous editorial standards with decades of specialized expertise to ensure accuracy and fairness. We are committed to delivering clear, impartial, and dependable coverage across the global gambling sector.
