- Playing on non GamStop casinos can provide a different experience from UK sites, but they often offer similar games and winning opportunities.
- Non-UK sites allow players on GamStop to continue gambling, but it's crucial to verify the legitimacy of offshore websites and understand the different gambling rules in various jurisdictions.
- Before playing for real money, it's advisable to practice with free demo versions of games to familiarize yourself with them and ensure they are legitimate.
Playing on non GamStop casinos can feel different, especially if you have always chosen UK sites. However, there are more similarities between GamStop and non-GamStop casinos. In most cases, you’ll find the same games and winning opportunities.
Nonetheless, these are websites licensed outside the UK, and not all are legitimate. Below, we examine all the crucial things you should know about gambling on casino websites that welcome GamStop players, including a few tips to help you find the best offers.
You’ll Be Playing on Non-UK Sites
GamStop is a voluntary self-exclusion program designed for UK players who want to take a break from gambling. It was introduced by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) as a mandatory license requirement, meaning all sites licensed by the commission must participate in the program. Only UKGC casinos are obliged to participate in GamStop.
Blocked players can still gamble while on GamStop on offshore websites licensed in Curacao, Canada, the USA, Macau, and several other regions with regulated online gambling. However, the rules in offshore jurisdictions aren’t designed to protect the UK player. It is vital to understand that you’ll be playing on sites outside the UK and take extra steps to find out about other licenses and how to distinguish legitimate non GamStop gambling sites.
Know the Gambling Rules
Each jurisdiction has unique gambling rules. In the UK, casinos need a UKGC license, but no legislation prevents players from joining websites licensed elsewhere. Still, it is essential to understand the different gambling rules used by offshore sites. Some countries make it illegal to play certain games, while others deduct taxes directly from the player’s bet slip.
Having an overview of the regulations will help you identify credible casinos that comply with all requirements. More importantly, you’ll be on the safe side of the law, avoiding any illegitimate offers from operators conducting illegal businesses and operations. We recommend playing on sites with a valid gambling license from a credible commission.
Practice Before Playing for Real Money
Casinos in the UK are required to provide a free demo version of the game. These free versions are essential for practice and getting the hang of the game before risking real money. Virtually all online gambling websites provide games with free demo versions. However, some options, like live casino games, almost often require real money.
We recommend trying out the free games and comparing them with ones you used to play in UK casinos and only after you can try some non GamStop PayPal casinos available in the UK. You can explore these real money casinos if you are confident they are legitimate games from your trusted providers.
Understand You Are Playing Games of Chance/Luck
Most slots, table games, bingo games, lotteries, video poker, scratchcards, keno, Slingo, craps, and other usual casino options rely on random number generators (RNGs). The RNGs are merely gaming software with an integrated house edge. They can provide a win or a loss, and the results significantly rely on sheer luck.
Some options have a higher return to player (RTP) percentages. However, the RTP is an average calculated over thousands of plays and doesn’t reflect what you’ll win. This means you can win or lose money playing games. Just make sure the site has games independently audited by different authorities for fair results to avoid rigged titles. Still, you’ll be relying on luck to win anything from casino games, except for live dealer options.
Stick to Secure Sites
Playing online comes with various security risks and cyber threats. If you intend to play real money bets, make sure you are in a safe and legitimate casino. Some of the important features of reviewing include:
- Gambling License – The site should have a valid license from credible commissions, such as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), Curacao Gaming Commission (CGC), Gibraltar, and Alderney.
- Fair Play Certificates – Choose sites with games audited by credible independent labs, such as eCOGRA, DLI, and iTech Labs to avoid casinos with rigged house edges.
- SSL Certificates – This is vital encryption that protects player information from leaking to hackers and unauthorized persons.
- Virus Scans – Top-rated platforms have regular malware scans to keep Trojan viruses away from their website.
- Reliable Support – The best casinos have 24/7 customer services and technical support.
You can also lookup player reviews and casino history for any complaints, unresolved issues, and past breaches. The goal is to choose operators with a clean track record.
Summary
Non-GamStop gambling sites offer a chance to continue enjoying your favourite games without the self-exclusion restrictions. However, they aren’t any different from the websites you opted to take a break from. It is vital to know when to quit and what you should avoid if you wish to continue gambling. More importantly, stick to secure, legitimate sites with a growing reputation among players.