Categories: Analysis

AIB introduces voluntary gambling ban

AIB is the latest bank to introduce a voluntary blocking feature for debit and credit card transactions related to gambling.

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Customers of the Irish lender can now call a hotline to request a freeze on their personal or business card, which will stop transactions identified as gambling.

AIB also says it offers a range of support and advice services for people who come to them with gambling problems. The bank cites data from Gamblingcare.ie which shows that in many cases a person will first disclose a gambling problem to staff at their financial institution rather than to family or friends.

The move was supported by GAA All Ireland Football Championship winner Oisín McConville, who has spoken about overcoming his gambling problem.

“I am delighted that AIB is offering this voluntary gambling suspension to help its customers address their gambling problems. “I want to reassure people that recovery is possible, that there is life after gambling addiction, and that help is available to anyone who needs it,” says McConville.

David Brooks