PTSB adds gambling block as player protection grows

With gambling harm in Ireland no longer something that’s being whispered about, the timing of this tool feels spot on.

With online Irish casinos now just another tap between emails and takeaway apps, having an instant ‘off switch’ isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.

What the new gambling block does

The tool, available now in the PTSB mobile app, allows customers to:

• Instantly block gambling transactions on their cards

• Cover payments to betting sites, online casinos, poker, and lotteries

• Add a 48-hour “impulse delay” before the block can be turned off — a smart cooling-off period to reduce reactive decisions

This is part of PTSB’s broader 2025–2027 sustainability strategy, which aims to support customer wellbeing, financial literacy, and inclusion through digital tools that actually do something.

The data behind the decision

PTSB’s internal data from January to June 2025 paints a clear picture of the need for such a tool:

Gambling stat	Result
% of gambling spend done online	91%
% of gambling spend by men	80%
Most active age group	40–49
% who spent over €1,000 in June	2% (qualifies as problem gambling)

Paired with ESRI research showing 130,000 adults in Ireland meet the criteria for problem gambling, and nearly 280,000 more showing moderate signs, the timing of this new tool couldn’t be better.

Banks step up as part of the wider safety net

PTSB is the latest Irish bank to launch such a feature, joining Bank of Ireland, AIB, and EBS.

Revolut, which is one of the most popular payment methods for Irish players, also has a gambling block feature.

This trend reflects a growing awareness across the Irish financial sector that banks have an important role to play in helping customers make healthier decisions, especially when habits become harmful.

“A valuable consumer protection measure…”

The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has welcomed PTSB’s rollout, calling it a “proactive and valuable consumer protection measure.” 

GRAI has also been engaging with industry bodies like the Irish Banking Culture Board and Banking and Payments Federation to encourage these kinds of tools.

Why this matters for players

This block isn’t just an added feature. It’s designed to give players a bit of breathing space if things feel like getting too much. It provides: 

• Instant control ✅: No waiting, no paperwork. Just tap and block gambling transactions in real time.

• Impulse-proofing ✅: The 48-hour delay stops knee-jerk reversals and adds a layer of reflection.

• Peace of mind ✅: For anyone feeling on edge about their gambling habits, this is an easy off-ramp.

• Protects your wallet ✅: Useful during moments of stress, boredom, or late-night decision-making.

Support from those on the frontlines

Oisín McConville of GamblingCare.ie, a support service for those affected by gambling-related harm, said the in-app block is a welcome addition:

Having this service available digitally will make a huge difference, especially given how accessible and ever-present online gambling has become.

Taking back control

In a world where some gambling operators still hide behind legal grey areas and shady terms, it’s the banks, of all institutions, that are giving players control.