The Danish self-exclusion registry, known as ROFUS (Register of Self-Excluded Players), has hit a significant milestone with 50,000 individuals opting to exclude themselves from gambling activities, according to Spillemyndigheden, the Danish Gambling Authority.
The increasing number of Danes choosing self-exclusion reflects a growing awareness of gambling addiction and the resources available for support, says the regulator. Established in 2012 by the Danish Gambling Authority, ROFUS allows individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from online gambling, land-based casinos, and betting venues with just a few clicks on a computer or smartphone.
At the inception of ROFUS in 2012, fewer than 1,500 Danes were registered. However, the registry has seen exponential growth over the years, reaching the 50,000 mark on April 1, 2024, underscoring its importance in combating problem gambling.
The surge in registrations may be attributed to heightened awareness efforts by the Danish Gambling Authority in recent years. Additionally, regulations implemented since January 2020 require online gambling operators and land-based casinos in Denmark to reference ROFUS in their marketing efforts.
Of the 50,000 individuals registered with ROFUS, about 64% have chosen permanent exclusion, representing over 32,000 persons. Others opt for temporary exclusions ranging from 24 hours to six months, with the majority selecting longer periods of self-exclusion.
While a permanent exclusion remains in place indefinitely, individuals have the option to request removal from ROFUS after one year. This process involves a confirmation period of up to 30 days to ensure informed decision-making and enhance consumer protection.