Casinos That Accept Citadel UK 2026: The Honest Guide

Casinos That Accept Citadel UK 2026: The Honest Guide

Citadel used to be one of those quiet workhorses of the online casino cashier. You would see the logo, click it, and your deposit landed in seconds via a direct bank transfer. No card numbers, no e-wallet sign-up, just your banking app and a confirmation code. Fast forward to 2026 and the picture is different. A lot of UK players are asking whether Citadel is still alive, which casinos still take it, and why the method has become harder to find. This guide answers those questions without the usual affiliate fluff.

The short version: Citadel instant banking has not vanished, but it has definitely retreated from the UK-facing market. The casinos that still advertise it tend to be offshore brands or a handful of operators that kept the integration while others moved to Trustly, MuchBetter, or open banking rails. If you are hunting for a casino that accepts Citadel in 2026, you need to know where to look and what trade-offs you are making. We are going to walk through the current landscape, list operators that still support the method or its close relatives, and explain what changed.

No, Citadel is not a casino. It is a payment method. That sounds obvious, but plenty of search queries treat it like a brand of slots. Citadel was built as an instant bank transfer service, similar to Trustly or Sofort. It lets you move money from your bank account to a merchant without leaving the casino page. The appeal was always simplicity. The problem, as we will see, is that simplicity is no longer enough when regulators demand more control over gambling payments.

We have not invented any bonus numbers in this article. The operators change welcome offers more often than a UK summer changes its mind, so we stick to bonus types. If a casino offers a deposit match, we say so. If it gives free spins, we say that. Exact percentages and maximum amounts are left to the cashier page, because that is where they belong. The table below gives you a comparison without the nonsense.

What Is Citadel Instant Banking and How Does It Work?

Citadel is a payment processing service that connects your bank account directly to an online merchant. In the context of online casinos, it works as an intermediary between your bank and the casino. You select Citadel at the deposit screen, enter the amount, and then you are redirected to your online banking portal. You approve the transfer using your usual security method, whether that is a one-time code, biometric login, or a banking app confirmation. The money moves immediately, and the casino credits your account within minutes.

The technical side is not important for most players, but it helps to understand why Citadel became popular. It uses the same basic infrastructure as other instant bank transfer services. The difference is in the merchant network and the fee structure. Citadel historically offered lower transaction fees for operators than some alternatives, which made it attractive to smaller casinos. For players, the main selling point was that you did not need to create a separate account or share card details. You just used your own bank’s security.

Citadel was never as famous as PayPal or Skrill, but it had a loyal following among players who preferred direct bank transfers. It also supported withdrawals in some cases, which not all instant banking methods did. That meant you could deposit and withdraw through the same channel, keeping your casino banking in one place. However, that functionality depended heavily on the casino’s own processing rules and the player’s bank. It was not universal.

In 2026, Citadel’s underlying technology has been absorbed into broader payment ecosystems. Several larger processors acquired or partnered with Citadel’s parent company over the years. The result is that some casinos that used to show a Citadel logo now show a generic ‘instant banking’ option powered by a different provider. When you click through, the experience feels similar, but the brand on the cashier page has changed. That is why so many UK players think Citadel is dead. It is not dead; it is just wearing a different name in many places.

Is Citadel Still Available at UK Casinos in 2026?

The honest answer is yes, but with serious caveats. The UK Gambling Commission has tightened payment rules over the past few years. Credit card deposits were banned in 2020, and regulators have pushed operators to use payment methods that support strong customer verification and affordability checks. Instant bank transfers are still allowed, but the burden on operators has increased. Many UK-licensed casinos decided to simplify their cashier by offering only a handful of payment methods that they knew could pass compliance without friction. Citadel, being a smaller player in the UK market, was often dropped in favour of Trustly or direct open banking.

That does not mean zero UK casinos accept Citadel. Some operators maintain legacy integrations, especially those that also serve European markets where Citadel remained more common. Offshore casinos, which often target UK players without a UKGC licence, are more likely to still list Citadel because they face different regulatory pressures. They do not have to answer to the UKGC, so they can offer a wider range of payment methods. However, playing at an offshore casino comes with its own risks, which we will cover later.

If you search for ‘casinos that accept Citadel UK 2026’ today, you will find a mix of old lists, forum threads from 2023, and a few updated pages. The reality is that the list changes frequently. Operators add and remove payment methods without making a fuss. The best approach is to check the casino’s banking page before you sign up, not after. Our table below gives you a starting point, but always verify the cashier yourself because payment availability can vary by country, IP address, and account status.

One more thing: Citadel is not limited to deposits. Some casinos used to support Citadel withdrawals, and a few still do. Withdrawal support has always been rarer than deposit support. If you plan to use Citadel, check whether it is available for both directions. Otherwise you might deposit with Citadel and then need a different method to get your money out, which adds friction and sometimes fees.

The Shortlist: Casinos That Still Accept Citadel or Its Direct Rails

The following table lists ten operators that either list Citadel in their cashier or use the same instant bank transfer infrastructure that Citadel relies on. We have prioritised brands that are recognisable, have at least some UK-facing presence, and are regularly mentioned in the context of Citadel deposits. The bonus column shows the type of welcome offer, not the exact amount, because those numbers change monthly and vary by player.

Casino Bonus Type Licence Withdrawal Speed Standout Feature
Betway Welcome bonus UKGC 1–3 days Sportsbook and casino combo
888casino Welcome bonus UKGC 1–2 days Large game library
LeoVegas Welcome bonus UKGC/MGA 1–2 days Mobile-first design
Mr Green Welcome bonus UKGC/MGA 1–3 days Green Gaming tools
Casumo Welcome bonus UKGC/MGA 1–2 days Gamified experience
PlayOJO No wagering free spins UKGC/MGA Instant to 24h No wagering on rewards
Rizk Welcome bonus UKGC/MGA 1–2 days Wheel of Rizk feature
Videoslots Welcome bonus UKGC/MGA 1–3 days Huge slot selection
MyStake Welcome bonus Curacao Instant to 48h Offshore, crypto-friendly
Goldenbet Welcome bonus Curacao Instant to 48h No GamStop, high limits

Do not treat this table as a guarantee. Payment method availability changes without notice, especially at offshore casinos. Before you register, open the casino’s payment page and look for Citadel, instant banking, or direct bank transfer. If you see it, deposit a small amount first to test the flow. If you do not see it, do not assume a workaround exists. Ask support or move on.

Betway

Betway is one of the most established names in the UK market, with a strong sportsbook and a decent casino. The cashier has historically included a range of bank transfer options, and Citadel has appeared on and off depending on your location. The welcome bonus is a classic deposit match with free spins on selected slots. Withdrawal times are average for a UKGC operator. If you are looking for a safe place to test Citadel, Betway is not a bad start, but check the cashier first.

888casino

888casino has been around for decades and operates under a UKGC licence. The casino’s payment page is not as cluttered as some rivals, which means Citadel is not always visible. However, 888 has a history of supporting instant bank transfers through various providers. The welcome offer usually includes a deposit bonus and free spins. The game selection is large, and the platform is reliable. Just remember that 888’s withdrawal process can be slower than some modern casinos, especially for first-time withdrawals.

LeoVegas

LeoVegas built its reputation on mobile play, and the cashier reflects that. The casino supports a wide range of payment methods, including several instant bank transfer options. Citadel has been available to UK players in the past, though its presence is not consistent. The welcome bonus is a deposit match plus free spins. LeoVegas is a solid choice if you want a mobile-friendly experience and are willing to verify whether Citadel is active for your account.

Mr Green

Mr Green markets itself as a responsible gambling operator, and its Green Gaming tools are genuinely useful. The casino holds both UKGC and MGA licences, which gives it a bit of flexibility. Payment methods are plentiful, and Citadel has appeared in the cashier for some regions. The welcome bonus is standard: a deposit match with free spins. The brand’s strength is the sustainability angle, not the payment method. If Citadel is available, Mr Green is a safe environment to use it.

Casumo

Casumo is known for its gamified approach to casino play. The cashier is clean and modern, but like many UKGC operators, it has streamlined payment options. Citadel may not always be front and centre, but the casino supports instant bank transfers in various forms. The welcome bonus usually includes a deposit match and free spins. Casumo is a good middle-ground choice if you want a reputable operator with a decent game library and are not too hung up on having Citadel as your only method.

PlayOJO

PlayOJO is a rare creature in the UK casino scene because it advertises no wagering on its bonuses. That means free spins and other rewards come without the usual 40x rollover nightmare. The welcome offer typically includes free spins with no wagering requirements. Payment options are broad, and the casino has supported direct bank transfers. Citadel’s presence is not guaranteed, but PlayOJO is worth checking if you value transparency over a flashy welcome bonus.

Rizk

Rizk is another gamified casino with a loyalty wheel and a no-nonsense attitude. The payment page includes several instant banking options, and Citadel has been available in some regions. The welcome bonus is a deposit match with free spins. Rizk is a decent option if you want a fast, modern interface and are willing to confirm Citadel availability. The brand is owned by the same group as Mr Green, so you get similar licensing and player protection.

Videoslots

Videoslots is all about volume. The casino claims to have more slots than most of its competitors, and the claim is not far off. The cashier supports many payment methods, including direct bank transfers. Citadel’s presence is not consistent, but the casino has historically offered it in certain markets. The welcome bonus is a deposit match with free spins. If you are a slot player and want a massive library, Videoslots is worth a look, but do not assume Citadel will be available without checking.

MyStake

MyStake is an offshore casino operating under a Curacao licence. It is not part of GamStop, which means UK players can access it even if they have self-excluded from UKGC casinos. The payment page is broad, and Citadel is one of the methods listed. The welcome bonus is a deposit match, and the casino also accepts cryptocurrencies. The trade-off is that you lose UKGC protection. Withdrawal times are faster than many UKGC casinos, but the risk is higher. We discuss that later.

Goldenbet

Goldenbet is another Curacao-licensed operator that targets UK players looking for a non-GamStop option. The cashier includes Citadel alongside crypto and other bank transfer methods. The welcome bonus is a deposit match, and the casino advertises high withdrawal limits. This is not a place for casual players who want UKGC oversight. If Citadel is your main priority and you are willing to accept offshore risk, Goldenbet is one of the more visible options in 2026.

How We Picked These Citadel Casinos

Ranking casinos that accept a specific payment method is not as simple as ticking a box. We looked at three things: whether the casino lists Citadel or a direct equivalent in its cashier, whether the operator is at least somewhat recognisable in the UK market, and whether the overall casino experience is decent enough to recommend. We did not rank by welcome bonus size because those figures are volatile and often misleading. A big number with outrageous wagering requirements is worse than a modest bonus with fair terms.

Licensing matters. UKGC-licensed casinos are safer for UK players because they must follow strict rules on player funds, fairness, and responsible gambling. Offshore casinos can be fine, but they exist in a grey area where player protection is weaker. We included a mix because the search term often implies a willingness to consider non-GamStop options. We made sure to label the licence so you can make an informed choice.

We also considered withdrawal speed. Citadel is an instant deposit method, but withdrawals can take longer depending on the operator. Some casinos process withdrawals within 24 hours, while others take three days or more. Fast withdrawals are not just about convenience; they reduce the risk that a casino will stall payments. We looked for operators with a history of paying out on time, not just flashy marketing.

Finally, we avoided any claim we could not verify. Bonus amounts change, game availability varies by country, and payment methods come and go. The table above gives you the type of bonus, not the exact percentage. The real due diligence is on you, done at the cashier page before you deposit.

Citadel Fees, Limits and Speed: What to Expect

Fee structures at online casinos are notoriously opaque. Some operators advertise ‘no fees’ but then pass on hidden costs through exchange rates or processing charges. Citadel itself does not typically charge players a direct fee for deposits, but your bank might apply a small charge for an instant transfer. This is not unique to Citadel; the same happens with other direct banking methods. The key is to check both the casino’s payment terms and your bank’s fee schedule before you deposit.

Withdrawal fees are even murkier. Some casinos charge a flat fee per withdrawal, especially if you use a bank transfer method. Others absorb the cost. The table below summarises the typical situation across the operators we listed. We have used qualitative terms because exact numbers are not stable and would be misleading.

Fee Type Typical Situation What to Check
Deposit fee Usually zero from casinos; bank may charge Your bank’s policy on instant transfers
Withdrawal fee Varies by casino; often zero for e-wallets, small for bank transfers Cashier page’s withdrawal terms
Currency conversion May apply if your bank account is not in GBP Exchange rate and any markup
Pending time Instant for approval; 0–2 days for processing Casino’s withdrawal policy
Minimum deposit Usually £10–£20; can be lower at offshore casinos Cashier’s minimum amount
Maximum deposit Varies widely; higher at offshore casinos Cashier’s maximum limit

Speed is the one area where Citadel shines. Deposits are instant in almost every case. You approve the transfer in your banking app, and the casino credits your account in seconds. That is the whole point of instant banking. Withdrawals are a different story. Even if a casino supports Citadel withdrawals, the processing time depends on the operator’s internal procedures. Some casinos process withdrawals within hours; others take 24 to 72 hours. Then your bank may take another day or two to make the funds available.

If you want fast withdrawals, look for casinos that advertise ‘instant withdrawals’ or ‘quick bank transfer’. But remember that ‘instant’ in casino marketing often means the casino starts processing immediately, not that the money is in your bank five seconds later. Bank transfers have inherent settlement delays that the casino cannot control. Set your expectations accordingly.

Bonuses at Citadel Casinos: The Catch Behind the ‘Free’ Money

Every casino bonus is a loan with conditions. The casino gives you extra funds or free spins, and in return you agree to wager a certain amount before you can withdraw any winnings. This is standard practice, but the terms vary wildly. A welcome bonus with a 40x wagering requirement means you must bet forty times the bonus amount before it becomes real money. That is not a gift; it is a challenge.

The most common bonus types at Citadel-accepting casinos are deposit matches and free spins. A deposit match gives you a percentage of your deposit as bonus money, up to a cap. Free spins are usually tied to specific slot games. Some casinos offer no wagering free spins, which means any winnings from those spins are yours immediately. PlayOJO is the best-known example of that model. Others, like Rizk or Mr Green, have standard wagering requirements.

Cashback is another bonus type that appears at Citadel casinos, especially offshore brands. Cashback returns a percentage of your net losses over a period. It sounds friendly, but the percentage is often low and the conditions are specific. You typically cannot withdraw cashback immediately; it may come with its own wagering requirement or be capped. Read the terms. Always read the terms.

We deliberately did not list exact bonus amounts in this article because they change frequently and depend on your country, deposit method, and sometimes even your device. A £100 bonus advertised in January might be £50 in March. The type of bonus is more stable. If you see ‘no wagering free spins’, that is a meaningful difference from ‘deposit match with 35x wagering’. Focus on the terms, not the headline number.

Citadel vs Trustly, MuchBetter, PayPal and Crypto

Citadel is not the only instant bank transfer option in 2026. Trustly is probably the biggest name in that space, used by many UKGC casinos and integrated directly with open banking protocols. MuchBetter is an e-wallet that also supports instant bank transfers and is popular with players who want a middle layer between their bank and the casino. PayPal remains the default for many UK players because of its buyer protection and familiarity. Crypto payments have grown, especially at offshore casinos, because they offer anonymity and fast settlement.

Compared to Trustly, Citadel is more of a niche player. Trustly has tighter banking relationships and is more widely accepted. If a UK casino supports instant banking, it is more likely to support Trustly than Citadel. The user experience is similar: you log into your bank and approve the transfer. The difference is in the network. If you cannot find Citadel, Trustly is the most natural substitute.

MuchBetter is an interesting alternative because it combines e-wallet convenience with bank transfer funding. You can load your MuchBetter account via bank transfer and then deposit at the casino instantly. Some players prefer this because it keeps their casino transactions separate from their main bank statement. MuchBetter also supports a physical card in some regions, which adds flexibility. The downside is that it is another account to manage.

PayPal is the safe default for UK players. It is fast, widely accepted, and offers strong dispute resolution. The catch is that not all casinos allow PayPal for both deposits and withdrawals, and some bonuses exclude PayPal deposits. If you value simplicity and are not chasing a specific bonus, PayPal is hard to beat. Crypto is the wild card. It offers speed and privacy but comes with volatility and regulatory uncertainty. Offshore casinos love crypto because it bypasses traditional banking restrictions.

The bottom line: Citadel is a good method, but it is no longer unique. Trustly does the same job with broader acceptance. MuchBetter adds a layer of privacy. PayPal is the default. Crypto is for those who want to avoid banks entirely. Choose based on what matters to you: speed, privacy, acceptance, or bonus eligibility.

Mobile Casinos with Citadel: Android and iOS Reality

Most online casinos in 2026 are mobile-first. The days of clunky desktop-only interfaces are gone. If a casino supports Citadel on desktop, it almost certainly supports it on mobile, because the cashier is integrated into the same responsive platform. You do not need a separate app for Citadel; the payment flow works through the casino’s mobile site or app. However, a few points are worth making.

On Android, the experience is straightforward. You open the casino in your browser or native app, select Citadel, enter the amount, and you are redirected to your banking app or mobile web login. Android allows deep linking between apps, so the handoff is usually smooth. On iOS, the flow is similar, though Apple’s restrictions on third-party payment methods can occasionally cause friction. The casino’s app will handle the redirect, so there is nothing extra to install.

One practical tip: if you use Citadel on a mobile device, make sure your banking app is installed and updated. The fastest way to approve a transfer is through biometric login in the app. If you have to log in via a mobile browser with a password, it adds time and increases the chance of a timeout. Some banks also require a second factor, which can interrupt the flow. Test with a small deposit first to see how your bank behaves.

Not all mobile casinos advertise Citadel prominently. The cashier may hide it under ‘More methods’ or ‘Bank transfer’. If you do not see it, look for a search bar in the cashier or ask live chat. Support agents can often tell you whether Citadel is available for your country and account status. Do not assume it is not available just because the logo is not on the first screen.

Non-GamStop Citadel Casinos: Higher Risk, Higher Hype

The search phrase ‘non GamStop casinos Citadel’ is common among UK players who have self-excluded and are looking for a way around the system. This is a dangerous path. GamStop is a free self-exclusion scheme that blocks you from all UKGC-licensed gambling sites. Offshore casinos that are not part of GamStop intentionally target players who want to bypass that block. They offer Citadel, crypto, and other methods that UKGC casinos may not support.

Playing at a non-GamStop casino is not illegal for UK players, but it is risky. These operators are licensed in places like Curacao, where regulation is lighter and player protection is weaker. If a dispute arises, you have less recourse. The casino may be legitimate, but you have to trust that it will pay out. Many players have had positive experiences, but the horror stories are real.

We listed MyStake and Goldenbet in our table because they are genuine brands that accept Citadel and are visible in the non-GamStop space. We are not endorsing them. We are telling you they exist. If you decide to use an offshore casino, do your own research. Check forums, look for recent withdrawal complaints, and start with a small deposit. Do not chase big bonuses at a casino you have never heard of.

Another issue with non-GamStop casinos is responsible gambling. If you have self-excluded via GamStop, the reason was likely to control your gambling. Bypassing that exclusion is not a clever workaround; it is a red flag. The whole point of GamStop is to give you a break. Using an offshore casino to get around it defeats the purpose. If you need help, contact GamCare or BeGambleAware instead.

Is Citadel Safe? Security and Licensing

Citadel uses standard banking security protocols, including encryption and two-factor authentication through your bank. When you approve a transfer, you are using your bank’s own security, not the casino’s. That is the main advantage of direct bank transfer methods: you never share your bank credentials with the casino. The casino only receives confirmation that the transfer was approved. From a technical standpoint, Citadel is as safe as any other instant banking service.

The security risk is not in the payment method; it is in the casino you choose. If a casino is unlicensed or poorly regulated, no payment method will protect you from fraud or unfair practices. UKGC-licensed casinos are subject to regular audits and must keep player funds in segregated accounts. Offshore casinos may not have the same requirements. That is why we emphasise licensing in our table. A secure payment method at a shady casino is like a good lock on a door in a bad neighbourhood.

Citadel itself has not had any major security breaches that we are aware of. The service has been around for over a decade and has processed millions of transactions. The parent company has changed hands a few times, but the core technology remains sound. If you are worried about data privacy, direct bank transfers are generally better than card payments because the merchant never sees your card number. Your bank sees the transaction, but that is true for any payment method.

One thing to note: Citadel deposits do not offer the same chargeback rights as credit cards. If a casino refuses to pay out, you cannot simply reverse the charge. You would need to go through the casino’s complaints process or a regulator. For UKGC casinos, that process is well-defined. For offshore casinos, it is murkier. This is another reason to stick with licensed operators if you plan to use Citadel for anything more than occasional small deposits.

New Citadel Casinos to Watch in 2026

The online casino market never sleeps. New brands launch every month, and some of them include Citadel in their initial payment stack. However, a new casino is exactly that: new. It has no track record, no history of payouts, and no community reputation. That does not mean it is a scam, but it does mean you should be cautious. The operators we listed in the table are established. If you want to experiment with a new Citadel casino, keep your first deposit small and test the withdrawal process before committing real money.

In 2026, the trend is toward aggregation platforms that offer multiple payment methods under one roof. Some new casinos are using white-label payment solutions that include Citadel as an option, but they may not advertise it loudly. The best way to find new Citadel casinos is to monitor affiliate sites that update their lists regularly, or to check casino review sites that include payment method filters. Just remember that many of those lists are outdated or financially motivated.

We cannot give you a list of new Citadel casinos because it would be speculation. What we can tell you is that the method survives because some operators still see value in direct bank transfers. As open banking becomes more widespread, the underlying technology behind Citadel is likely to be absorbed into generic ‘instant banking’ options. By 2027, the Citadel brand may disappear entirely, but the function will remain under a different name. That is not a bad thing. It just means you should focus on the feature, not the logo.

FAQ: Citadel Casinos UK 2026

Can I still use Citadel at UK online casinos in 2026?

Yes, but availability is limited. A few UKGC-licensed casinos still list Citadel as a deposit method, and several offshore casinos do as well. The method is not as common as Trustly or PayPal. Check the casino’s cashier page before signing up, because availability varies by country and account status.

Which casinos accept Citadel deposits UK?

The table in this guide lists ten operators that either accept Citadel directly or support the same instant bank transfer rails. The list includes Betway, 888casino, LeoVegas, Mr Green, Casumo, PlayOJO, Rizk, Videoslots, MyStake, and Goldenbet. Always verify on the casino’s payment page, as methods change.

Is Citadel safe for online casino deposits?

Citadel is technically safe because it uses your bank’s security procedures and you never share your bank credentials with the casino. The larger risk is the casino itself. Choose a licensed operator, preferably UKGC or MGA, and check the casino’s reputation before depositing.

Do Citadel casinos offer withdrawals via Citadel?

Some do, but withdrawal support is rarer than deposit support. Even when Citadel withdrawals are available, processing times vary from instant to 72 hours depending on the casino. If you need fast withdrawals, consider using an e-wallet or a casino that advertises quick bank transfers.

Why did many UK casinos stop accepting Citadel?

UKGC payment rules became stricter after the credit card ban, and operators streamlined their cashier to focus on methods that integrate well with affordability checks. Citadel’s market share in the UK was small, so it was often dropped in favour of Trustly or open banking. The method still exists but is less visible.

Are non-GamStop Citadel casinos legal for UK players?

It is not illegal for UK players to use offshore casinos, but those operators are not regulated by the UKGC. That means you have fewer player protections and less recourse if something goes wrong. If you are self-excluded via GamStop, using a non-GamStop casino to bypass that block is strongly discouraged.

Responsible Gambling and Final Thoughts

Citadel is a payment method, not a magic trick. It does not change the odds, the wagering requirements, or the house edge. If you are chasing a casino because it accepts Citadel, ask yourself whether that is really the deciding factor. The casino’s licence, payout speed, and bonus terms matter far more than the logo on the cashier. If Citadel is the only way you can deposit, fine. But do not let a payment method blind you to a bad deal.

Gambling should be entertainment, not a financial strategy. Set a budget before you deposit, and stick to it. If you find yourself depositing more than you planned, use the responsible gambling tools that UKGC casinos offer. Deposit limits, reality checks, and time-outs are there for a reason. Offshore casinos may not have these tools, which is another reason to be cautious with them.

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. GamCare (www.gamcare.org.uk) offers free support and counselling. BeGambleAware (www.begambleaware.org) provides information and resources. The National Gambling Helpline is available 24/7 at 0808 8020 133. These services are not affiliated with any casino and do not judge. Use them if you need them.

The landscape for Citadel in 2026 is smaller than it used to be. The method still works, but you have to look harder to find it. The casinos we listed are a starting point, not a final answer. Payment methods change, bonuses change, and the only constant is that you should read the terms before you deposit. That is not a slogan; it is the most practical advice in this entire guide.

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