Irish banks introduce voluntary gambling block on cards

[The Buzz]

AIB and its subsidiary EBS have launched a new feature allowing customers to voluntarily block debit and credit card transactions associated with gambling.

This initiative is designed to support individuals struggling with gambling addiction and help them protect themselves and their families from financial harm. The block can be applied to both personal and business cards upon customer request.

From the press release:

"We understand that when gambling becomes harmful it can affect not just the person involved, but their families and friends too. It can damage relationships, finances, employment, and mental health," said AIB Managing Director Retail Banking, Geraldine Casey.

"The financial services industry has a role to play in supporting customers as they combat any gambling difficulties they may have, and it's important AIB does what we can to help them stop the harm."

"That is why we are putting in place additional supports for customers who wish to take steps to protect themselves from problem gambling.’’

Oisín McConville, the former Armagh footballer who has overcome a gambling problem, has backed the move by the bank.

He has also urged people with gambling issues to avail of the supports that are on offer, including from gamblingcare.ie where he works.

Read more here: https://aib.ie/content/dam/aib/group...ock-260824.pdf

[universal4]

I see this as probably a good thing and makes far better sense then draconian ideas of just trying to block all debit or credit cards.

It would be even better if the customer could easily enable or disable the block, say on the web interface for the card or bank, although making it too easy could also defeat part of trying to help those with a big problem.

Rick
Universal4