Prepaid cards and account self-locking

Introduction

Self-exclusion is one of the key responsible gaming tools available in Australian online casinos. It allows you to temporarily or permanently restrict the player's access to bets. At the same time, the method of replenishment of the account, including prepaid cards, directly affects the operation of this function and how the casino processes deposits during blocking.

What is self-locking

Self-locking is a voluntary restriction placed by a player on a casino account. It can be:
  • Short-term - from 24 hours to several months;
  • Long-term - from six months or more;
  • Lifelong - without the possibility of recovery.

After activating self-locking, the casino is obliged to block new deposits and access to games, regardless of the replenishment method.

Impact of prepaid cards on self-locking

1. Deposits are not possible - if an account is locked, the casino will not even accept payment through Paysafecard, Neosurf or Flexepin.
2. Restriction of anonymity - although prepaid cards themselves do not require registration, the casino matches them with a specific account, so bypassing self-locking in this way is impossible.
3. Reliance on casino rules - some operators in Australia automatically reject any transactions with cards linked to previously self-locked accounts.

Key risks when using prepayment

Attempt to bypass the lock - players can try to create a new account and use another prepaid card. However, such actions violate casino rules and can lead to complete confiscation of winnings.
Delays in refunds - If the deposit was made shortly before the self-hold was activated, the casino may hold the funds until verification is complete.
No return to card - As most prepaid cards do not support withdrawal, returns are only possible by alternative means (e.g. bank transfer).

Casino support

Australian operators operating in the legal field offer the following measures:
  • Automatically block all recharge attempts, including prepaid cards.
  • The ability to return the player's balance to a secure withdrawal method.
  • Providing access to support services and help lines for game addiction.

Regulatory aspects

Australian regulators (ACMA, AUSTRAC) require online casinos to provide self-locking mechanisms. The use of prepaid cards does not in any way cancel the operator's obligation to block the player's access to gambling when self-exclusion is activated.

Result

Prepaid cards are convenient for anonymous deposits, but they do not allow you to bypass self-locking in Australian casinos. The self-locking function works at the account level, not the payment method. Attempts to use new prepaid cards to bypass restrictions lead to the risk of account blocking and loss of funds. For players seeking to control gambling, self-blocking remains an effective protection tool, and the use of prepayment does not in any way reduce its significance.