NAB becomes first Australian bank to launch gambling blocker
In-app feature will block all transactions across online gambling and sports betting for customers
NAB has become the first Australian bank to offer an option to customers to block gambling transactions via its mobile app.
NAB customers with Visa Credit or Visa Debit cards can restrict gambling transactions with just one touch across iOS and Android devices.
The feature was originally rolled out in December 2019 on iOS devices and following its success is now available on a wider basis.
The block works on sports betting, casino games, lottery tickets and online gambling and is supplemented by an additional gambling restriction call line by which customers can also opt in to restrict gambling transactions.
The block can be turned off once it has been implemented but it can take up to 48 hours for the reversal to take place.
NAB chief customer experience officer Rachel Slade noted that the new function would support responsible gambling and help Australians control their finances in a more sustainable manner.
She said: “It’s very easy to place a bet, so there’s real value in giving people the option to plan ahead and control their spending. This tool is designed to put the choice in the hands of our customers.
“Since commencing the roll-out in December we have seen more than 10,000 customers turn on the restriction, highlighting the importance of offering easy-to-use tools for customers to manage their finances.”