How account blocking works with ludomania
Shortly
Account blocking is a "hard stop" that prevents access to games, deposits and promos. It can be voluntary (at the request of the player), initiated by the operator (if risks are identified), inter-operator (through the regulator/unified register) or at the request of loved ones (if the jurisdiction policy allows it). The goal is to break the impulse cycle quickly, protect budget and health, and reduce legal and reputational risks.
1) Types of interlocks
1. Voluntary blocking by the operator
The account is closed for entering games and deposits for a selected period or indefinitely.
Often combined with the settings of "self-exclusion," "timeout," limits.
2. Inter-operator interlock (regulator register)
Enters the player into a single register of jurisdiction → all licensed operators are required to refuse access for a period of 6-12 + months.
3. Proactive blocking
With risk patterns: frequent deposits, attempts to "catch up," night sessions, complaints from loved ones, obvious signs of harm.
Includes temporary suspension until risk assessment and/or self-exclusion offer.
4. Third Party Interlock
In some countries, a relative/guardian is allowed to contact → the operator requests a check and may temporarily restrict access until clarification (with the protection of the player's rights).
2) What exactly is blocked
Access to games: all products (slots, live, bets).
Financial transactions towards the game: deposits, participation in bonuses/quests.
Marketing: promotional letters, fluffs, retargeting are translated into "quiet mode."
Changing limits: prohibited for the period of blocking.
Data access: Transaction history, profile and support usually remain.
3) How lockdown is triggered (step by step)
A) Voluntarily by the operator
1. Enter the "Responsible game" → select "Self-exclusion/Account blocking."
2. Indicate the term (6-12-24 months, or indefinitely) and confirm consent.
3. Pass identity verification (if necessary).
4. Receive a letter with dates and withdrawal rules.
5. Display the available balance; disable saved cards and auto payments.
B) Through the regulator (unified register)
1. Application on the portal of the regulator → selection of the term.
2. KYC verification.
3. The registry entry → a signal to all licensed operators.
4. Access is closed everywhere; promos are disabled.
C) At the initiative of the operator
1. Identification of risks (behavioral signals/handling) → temporary suspension.
2. Player Connection: Offer limits/timeout/self-exclusion.
3. In case of risk confirmation - blocking for a period according to the RG/license policy.
4) Timing and "rigidity"
Timeout: 24-90 days (soft measure).
Operator self-exclusion: 6-12 + months, early cancellation is usually impossible.
Regulatory register: 6-12-24 months or more; return only according to the procedure after the deadline.
Indefinite: some jurisdictions allow indefinite recording with the right to review.
5) Balance, bonuses, statuses
Balance: can be derived according to KYC/AML and T&C; refills are not available.
Bonuses/wagers: they burn out/freeze more often, you can't finish the game.
VIP: status is frozen/removed; personal managers are not entitled to "convince" and offer promos.
Referral/escape rooms: Suspended.
6) Privacy and data protection
Data is used only to restrict access and comply with the law.
Access to the registers is with the regulator and licensed operators/KUS providers.
Retention period and removal procedure are governed by local law (GDPR/equivalent).
The player has the right to know the status of the record and the timing.
7) How to recognize the "red zone" (when blocking is necessary)
Replenishment "in debt," the growth of the credit load.
Dogon after losses, night/long sessions, ignoring limits.
Hiding spending from loved ones, conflicts, problems with work/sleep.
Disruption after timeouts, failure to comply with their own rules.
If several items match, blocking and/or self-exclusion are shown immediately.
8) Personal security plan during lockdown
1. Finance: separate card without overdraft; daily spending ceiling; debt restructuring plan.
2. Technique: site/application blockers (Freedom/Cold Turkey/LeechBlock), "night silence" on devices.
3. Communications: unsubscribe from promo, filters in mail, hiding "trigger" tapes.
4. Rituals: list of replacements for 10-15 minutes (movement, shower, call, mini-study).
5. Support: talking to a loved one/specialist (CBT/addictologist); weekly "week totals" note.
9) Return after the block: how not to break
Not on the end day - start the next day.
Small default limits: month ≤1 -2% of net income; session 25-30 minutes; losses/session ≤15 -20% of weekly limit.
Increase delay: 24-168 hours; revision no more than 1-3 months.
Double lock: time limit + loss; reality-check every 25-30 minutes.
The 24-hour rule: any continuation is only tomorrow.
Disruption signals → immediate timeout/re-exception.
10) Frequent Questions (FAQs)
Is it possible to cancel the lock earlier? Usually not - this is protection against impulsive decisions.
What if you create a new account? It's a violation; anti-fraud and KYC can detect bypass, access/funds will be blocked until clarified.
Is blocking in effect in offshore casinos? Registers cover licensed operators. Additionally, use personal blockers and "night silence."
Will the block affect credit history? No, it isn't. But debts - yes; observe financial hygiene.
Is it possible to withdraw money during the lockdown? As a rule, yes - according to KYC/AML and operator rules.
11) Check list before submission for blocking
- Selected type: Operator/Regulatory Registry
- Defined term: ___ months
- Ready for KYC; read withdrawal/bonus rules
- Displayed available balance
- Disabled saved cards/auto payments
- Enabled blockers/night silence/bank limits
- Recorded support contact (friend/specialist)
- Return plan: limits, pauses, delay for increases
12) For operators/developers (best practices)
Visibility: "Blocking/Self-exclusion" in 1-2 clicks from the office.
Proactivity: identification of risk patterns, soft interventions, suggestion of timeout/exclusion.
Compliance with registers: reconciliation at login/registration/deposit; immediate lock on match.
Marketing silence: no-promo for the whole term; lack of retargeting.
Transparent output: clear SLAs and instructions; lack of "persuasion."
Data: minimization, security, inspection logs; compliance with GDPR/analogues.
"Soft landing" after the deadline: limit templates, reality-check, default delay for raises.
13) If you or someone close needs help
Consider consulting a CBT/addictions specialist or participating in a mutual aid group.
Inform a loved one about the block and ask for "external control" of the budget for 4-8 weeks.
Focus on sleep, nutrition, movement and routine - this reduces impulsivity and the risk of disruption.
Blocking an account for ludomania is not a punishment, but a security tool. It closes the "door" for impulses, gives time to restore finances and mode, and forms conditions for a responsible return - with small limits, pauses and rules that do not change "in flight." The earlier you apply the lock for signs of a "red zone," the lower the cost of the error.