Thousands of Bank of Scotland customers set for new debit card shake-up

THOUSANDS of customers at Bank of Scotland are set for a game-changing new shake-up when using a debit card. 

As part of a new trial, users will now be able to set personalised monthly limits on how much they spend each month on gambling using their card – whether spending online, in person or over the phone. 

The new feature allows customers using the Bank of Scotland mobile app to set a monthly debit card gambling limit – which can be adjusted or removed at any time and will automatically roll on each month until it is removed. 

Philip Robinson, Everyday Banking Director at Bank of Scotland, said: “Our customers have been able to ‘turn off’ gambling spend for several years and our newest feature means we now provide even more support for people who want to keep a close eye on gambling payments. 

“Customers can now set a personalised gambling spend limit, helping them manage their money and establish boundaries around certain spending behaviour.”

Anna Hemmings, GamCare CEO, said: “As many households are having to think more carefully about their budgets, the launch by Bank of Scotland of a new in-app gambling spend limit feature will give those most vulnerable to gambling harms an important means of controlling their gambling – and prevent harms from escalating. 

“This tool complements the range of existing support features that we can recommend to people reaching out for help.”

The moves comes as research from the Scottish Health Survey found that more than two in five Scottish adults participate in gambling (excluding the National Lottery) and 0.3% are considered to be ‘problem’ gambling.

Research carried out by Bank of Scotland found that 50% of people would like banks to take further action to help prevent gambling harm, with monthly gambling limits being one of the most supported features amongst respondents.