Free spins are among the most popular casino bonuses – they allow players to enjoy their favourite slots with no or minimum expense. Unsurprisingly, users chase such promotions and want to claim as many as possible since it’s possible to win without depositing a penny. But how beneficial such deals are for vulnerable players?

The thing is, gambling addiction rates are quickly progressing globally. Minimizing the harmful casino impacts is on the agenda for many countries’ governments and operators. In such an instance, free spins and other bonuses are dangerous, as they motivate users to spend more time on gaming platforms. However, there are mechanisms to promote responsible gambling principles, and self-exclusion programs are considered the most efficient tools. It’s time to sort out how they work and why it’s so essential to implement them in African casinos’ activities.

How Do Free Spins Work?

This promotion is widespread on gaming platforms, and players adore them. As explained in the guide about non GamStop free spins by Rob Davies, this type of promotion is especially popular at the online casinos that do not cooperate with this self-exclusion scheme (we’ll cover GamStop and its functions a bit later). Free spins are a perfect opportunity to gamble more without extra top-ups. Claiming the reward is simple, as players only have to register (if it’s a no-deposit offer) or proceed with a minimum replenishment, in other cases. After that, the gaming website rewards them with free spins that can be spent in the best slots.

It seems there’s nothing dangerous about claiming several juicy bonuses, doesn’t it? However, it’s critical to be attentive and limit the amount of time and money spent in online casinos. Problem gambling addiction statistics are disappointing globally, and African countries are no exception. However, there are ways to cope with this issue and promote healthy gaming behaviours among players.

What Is GamStop?

Self-exclusion software is a top solution for compulsive gamblers, as it allows the affected to limit access to risky websites. GamStop is the most popular program, covering all gaming and betting websites under the UKGC licensing. It provides registered users with a restriction on casinos and sportsbooks for a chosen period from 6 months to 5 years. The ban can’t be cancelled, so the affected players will have to follow the rules and proceed with treatment. The only disadvantage of GamStop is that it covers British platforms. But does it mean other virtual casinos’ members cannot take advantage of such software?

Alternatives to GamStop

Luckily, it’s not the only self-exclusion tool available for compulsive gamblers. The affected users can join other programs working similarly to GamStop. They include NetNanny, BetBlocker, GamBan, and others. Players claiming free spins not on GamStop can join the chosen program themselves and pick the self-exclusion duration. Besides, most programs offer support groups and appropriate treatment, allowing gamblers to cope with difficult periods.

Gambling Legislation in African Countries

Overall, both online and offline casinos are allowed in most countries on the continent. According to statistics, South Africa and Nigeria are the biggest gambling states in Africa : research showed that 78% and 74% of residents, respectively, are involved in casinos and sportsbooks. On the other hand, around 4.7% of the African population is prone to gambling addiction development. The problem rate is growing, so this challenge must be addressed as soon as possible.

The Importance of Implementing Self-Exclusion Tools for African Players

Even despite multiple sources of information, many people are still unaware of the harmful consequences of playing in online and offline casinos. Free spins beckon players with their generosity, and hardly anyone thinks about the possibility of gambling addiction. But the problem persists, mostly targeting the poor and vulnerable African populations. Therefore, promoting a responsible approach to gambling is essential for local governments. Implementing self-exclusion programs is a suitable solution that will bring the following benefits:

• Informing the population about the harmful effects of gambling
• Refocusing player’s attention and finances to something other than bets
• Promoting a healthy approach to gambling in the region
• Providing access to support groups & treatment options to affected

However, many self-exclusion programs like GamBan are not free, which may turn players off. In addition, many end up in debt because of their addiction and simply cannot pay for such recovery programs. In this case, it is worth introducing free tools that will be available to every user. For example, BetBlocker doesn’t charge fees and is accessible to everyone.

The Final Word

We know how tempting free spins in casinos can be – it’s a perfect chance to try more slot machines at the operator’s expense. Claiming bonuses is one of the most amazing parts of online gambling, but it also has drawbacks. Gambling addiction is a serious disorder, targeting around 4.7% of the entire African population. Governments, operators, and players should follow responsible gaming trends and principles and stick to special mechanisms, providing a healthier gambling environment. Self-exclusion programs are the most efficient tools for coping with compulsive gambling, so African countries should consider implementing them into the iGaming industry.