The credit card gambling ban also extends to payments made via e-wallets and comes after the Gambling Commission and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) announced the move in January.

More than 10 million people gamble online and statistics show that around 800,000 use credit cards.  Around a fifth (22%) of online gamblers who use credit cards are classed as ‘problem gamblers’ and the ban adds a vital layer of protection for consumers.

Neil McArthur, Gambling Commission chief executive, said: “This credit card ban will further protect consumers from financial harm and from today, nobody in Great Britain can use a credit card to gamble. It is a ban which ultimately reduces the risks of harm to consumers from gambling with money they do not have.

“The ban also comes at a vital time as we are seeing an increase in the use of some online products, such as online slots and virtual sports, and our online search analysis shows an increase in UK consumer interest in gambling products since the lockdown began. This highlights just how important it is for gambling operators to keep people safe and the credit card ban will help that.

“This is another milestone and we will continue to look for ways to make gambling safer.”

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If anyone is worried about their or someone else’s gambling activity, The National Gambling Helpline provides confidential information, advice and support for anyone affected by gambling problems in England, Scotland and Wales. For more information visit gamcare.org.uk or call 0808 8020 133.