The difference between limits and blocking an account in an online casino

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

Aspect	Limits	Account blocking
Primary objective	Control of daily/periodic expenses and time	Discontinuation of any game activity for an extended period
When used	For regular budget and session management	When impulsive behavior prevails or signs of dependence develop
Flexibility	You can change values (often with "cooling")	Cannot cancel until the end of the selected term
Validity period	Continuous until modified by user	Fixed: 24 hours to infinity
Interlock type	Partial: specific transactions (deposits, rates)	Full: access to account, rates and top-ups

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

Criterion	Limits	Account blocking
Budget control	Precise, at different levels	Maximum protection, but rough tool
Self-checking	Supports planning habit	After removing the deadline, it is easy to forget about the limits
Psychological effect	Notifications help you realize the moment of risk	Forced pause gives rest, but requires motivation to return
Comprehensive implementation	Easy setup in your personal account	Affects 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.