It’s a step that comes amid mounting concern over increased online betting, especially among young adults, and coincides with a wider campaign led by the GRAI to promote financial safeguards across the banking sector.
The newly launched tool allows BoI customers to request a block that will prevent transactions with gambling operators, including online casinos, lotteries, and betting sites.
The blocking service is available for both personal and business debit cards, with plans to extend it to credit cards in the coming months. Customers in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland can activate the block via dedicated helplines or through the bank’s website.
According to the bank’s own analysis of Q1 2025 card spending, 90% of gambling transactions now occur online, and 99% are funded via debit card..