Russian Problem Gamblers Can Now Self-Exclude Thanks to New Law

Russia has accepted a new law that will see Russian citizens dealing with gambling addiction be able to voluntarily add themselves to a nationwide “self-prohibition” registry. This new measure extends beyond restricting entry to casinos and betting shops, introducing additional limits on how gambling companies are allowed to advertise.

Russian Parliament Accepts New Self-Exclusion Law 

Citizens who enroll will be able to select the length of their abstinence, though the minimum period is fixed at 12 months and cannot be ended early. Requests will be reviewed by the gambling regulator, which will then distribute the list of registered individuals to licensed operators nationwide.

After registration, participants will be prohibited from placing bets with bookmakers or accessing licensed casinos and slot halls. The system will operate through Gosuslugi, Russia’s Unified Portal of State and Municipal Services, allowing people across the country to join the registry easily.

In addition, companies will be forbidden from sending advertising or promotional messages to registered individuals. Gambling venues must prominently display information about the program on their premises. Furthermore, operators will be required to include clear explanations and direct links to the service on their official websites so customers understand how to enroll. Licensed gambling operators will also be required to consult the database before accepting any bets, ensuring that those who have opted in are refused service.

What Else Does the New Law Do?

The new law has been in the works for several months now, with the bill initially passing the State Duma (Russia’s parliament) in the summer. The legislation also introduces measures to strengthen enforcement against illegal online gambling platforms. Authorities plan to block access to unlicensed websites and curb financial transactions, particularly those involving cryptocurrency, which is often used to evade regulation.

Speaking of cryptocurrency, they have often been at the center of controversies regarding their use in the gambling scene. This has sometimes even resulted in lawsuits between operators, regulators, crypto providers, users, and others involved in the digital gaming market. For example, recently, the cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase has taken legal action against regulators in Connecticut, Illinois, and Michigan in order to protect its offering in those states.

Back in Russia, Maxim Topilin, chair of the State Duma’s Committee on Economic Policy, described the measure as a vital tool for individuals with gambling addictions and their families. He explained that the new legislation provides them with an opportunity to better control their betting behavior.

Russia’s Ministry of Health has reported that thousands of Russians seek treatment each year for gambling-related issues, underscoring why limits on advertising and access are being strengthened alongside the introduction of the self-prohibition system. Lawmakers are already weighing stricter enforcement measures, including fines of up to $360 for staff who permit barred individuals to gamble, and penalties of up to $1,200 for the companies that employ them.