Polymarket Launches New Responsible Gambling Tools For Users

The days of prediction market platforms rejecting responsible gambling appear to be over.

Earlier this week, Polymarket rolled out several new responsible gambling tools commonly found on regulated sportsbooks. They include deposit limits and self-exclusion options, which have proven effective in fighting problem gambling. The changes went into effect on Wednesday. 

The company also announced a new partnership with Birches Health to support its new efforts.

Polymarket Promises More Changes

The prediction market’s decision to step up its efforts to combat problem gambling represents a big win for the country’s sports betting market. Responsible gambling advocates were also to hear that Polymarket is only getting started.

In a press release from the operator, Global Head of Trust and Safety Malea Otranto made it clear these changes are part of a greater effort.

People should be able to set their own limits, step away on their own terms, and know what the rules are. That is what launched today, and it is the floor, not the ceiling. We're excited to continue to build out from here.

Expansion of Self-Exclusion

One of Polymarket's most important additions is its self-exclusion list. It’s been a crucial tool for sportsbooks in the fight against problem gambling over the last few years. However, the rise of sports prediction markets has threatened to change that.

With prediction platforms originally resisting responsible gambling efforts, exclusion lists were excluded from the regulated sports betting industry. As a result, struggling bettors who sign up could easily keep gambling via platforms like Polymarket. With operators from the rival industries refusing to work together, the once-universal list was becoming far less effective.

By adding an exclusion list, Polymarket is helping ensure the tool works better across both industries. It removes an easy temptation for bettors struggling with addiction, helping support their path to recovery.

Birches Health Boosts Efforts

Polymarket didn’t stop at simply matching the tools commonly offered by sportsbooks. Instead, it took things a step further by also partnering with Birches Health.

The partnership allows Polymarket to offer a “private path to support,” where users can connect with trained therapists directly from the new Trust and Safety Hub. It contains a link to sign up for help, as well as an email address to contact the group. 

Making it easy for users to find the help they need is crucial and shows that the operator’s efforts go beyond good publicity.