Difference between limits and account blocking

1. Definitions

Limits - predefined thresholds (amounts of deposits, rates, losses, session time), upon reaching which the system notifies or automatically blocks the corresponding operations.
Account blocking (self-exclusion) - voluntary complete suspension of access to an account for a specified period (from hours to months or forever), without the possibility of return before this period expires.

2. Application objectives and scenarios

AspectLimitsAccount Lockout
Primary ObjectiveControl Daily/Periodic Spending and TimeDiscontinue any Game Activity for an Extended Period
When usedFor regular budget and session managementWhen impulsive behavior prevails or signs of dependence develop
FlexibilityYou can change values ​ ​ (often with "cooling")You cannot cancel until the end of the selected period
ExpirationPersistent until modified by userFixed: 24 hours to infinity
Blocking typePartial: specific transactions (deposits, rates)Full: access to account, rates and replenishments

3. Mechanisms of work

3. 1 Limits

1. Soft-limits: notification when 75-90% of the threshold is reached; the player can confirm and continue.
2. Hard limits: automatic blocking of operations at 100% threshold; The transaction cannot be returned until the end of the period.
3. Cooling period: before changing (usually increasing) the limit, a delay of 24-72 hours is set.

3. 2 Account blocking

1. Self-exclusion: choosing a period (at least 24 hours, more often 7-30 days, sometimes indefinitely).
2. Irremovability: the player cannot remove the lock ahead of schedule - neither through his personal account, nor through support.
3. Centralised registries: In some jurisdictions (UK, AU) the lock is synchronised between all operators.

4. Advantages and limitations

CriteriaLimitsAccount Lockout
Budget controlPrecise, at different levelsMaximum protection, but rough tool
Self-controlSupports the planning habitOnce the deadline is lifted, it's easy to forget about limits
Psychological effectNotifications help to realize the moment of riskForced pause gives rest, but requires motivation to return
Comprehensiveness of implementationSimple configuration in your personal accountAffects the entire account, requires a serious decision

5. How to select a tool

1. For daily control: limits are suitable for beginners and experienced players - set deposit, bet, losing and time limits.
2. At signs of impulsivity: if you regularly ignore soft-limits or increase thresholds, activate self-exclusion for 24-72 hours to "cool down."
3. Combination: optimal - first limits, then, if necessary, account blocking for a long pause.

6. Practical recommendations

Set limits on all key categories at once (deposits, bets, losses, time).
Do not lower hard thresholds under the pressure of emotions: let the increase require "cooling."
At the first sign of loss of control, activate a short lock (24-48 hours) to pause and rethink your strategy.
Keep a journal: record the facts of the limits and your feelings - this will help you understand trends and correct behavior in time.

7. Conclusion

Limits and account blocking perform different, but complementary functions: limits provide flexible, multi-level control, and account blocking provides a radical pause when game addiction worsens. Use both tools consistently: limits for daily protection and self-exclusion for emergency stop.