BetBlocker and the Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) are collaborating to give US consumers more options for blocking their access to online gambling.
The nonprofit BetBlocker is established in Scotland and is totally supported by donations. Users can download a software from the organization that limits their device's access to over 118K gambling websites.
It only takes a few minutes to install and configure BetBlocker. The program merely prevents a computer or mobile device from accessing 118,700 gambling websites and over 1,500 gambling-related apps, so no personal information is needed.
Promoting the globally accessible responsible gambling tool is one aspect of ROGA's collaboration with BetBlocker.
"ROGA was established to raise the standard for responsible online gaming through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to evidence-based practices,” said Dr. Jennifer Shatley, executive director of ROGA. “Making resources like BetBlocker more visible and accessible is one way we put that mission into action. We’re equipping individuals with practical tools that support their decisions and well-being.”
“We’re delighted to partner with the Responsible Online Gaming Association to expand access to BetBlocker across the United States. This collaboration will help tens of thousands of people take meaningful steps to manage their relationship with gambling, regardless of where or how they play,” said Duncan Garvie, BetBlocker founder.
“By working with ROGA and its member operators, we’re removing barriers to support and making it easier for people to access the tools they need — freely, anonymously, and on their own terms,” Garvie added.
Promotion for BetBlocker
ROGA has eight members, including FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics, some of the biggest iGaming and online sports betting companies. Other ROGA members include Hard Rock Digital, Bally's, bet365, and Penn Entertainment (ESPN Bet).
The provision of responsible gaming resources, such as self-imposed deposit limitations, cool-off intervals, and time management options, is mandatory for all licensed online sportsbooks and iGaming operators. Self-exclusion options are also offered to customers in all commercial gaming states where iGaming and/or mobile sports betting are authorized.
Gaming that isn't controlled is another matter. Even if they self-exclude through a state gaming regulatory body, a problem gambler will have little trouble finding a location to gamble online because of the large number of offshore, illegal casinos that still market to US players and the controversial "sweeps" casinos that are all over the internet. Here's when BetBlocker comes in handy.
Any gambling URL in the BetBlocker database cannot be accessed by the device's internet when BetBlocker is installed on an internet-connected device. Both regulated and unregulated gambling websites and applications are included in the weekly updated database.
Once the device has started a self-restriction, it cannot be stopped until the predetermined amount of time has passed. The self-imposed ban on online gambling remains in effect even after uninstalling BetBlocker.
“We go to great lengths to ensure that BetBlocker is as difficult to remove as possible during a Gambling Self-Restriction, and our User Support Team will not assist you in removing the tool while there is an ongoing restriction,” the BetBlocker website explains.
The Best Technique Is Self-Exclusion
Self-exclusion is the most successful rehabilitation strategy for problem gamblers, according to proponents of responsible gaming like ROGA. The association will prominently advertise and highlight BetBlocker's free blocking software on its website and platform as a result of their relationship.
Additionally, "to explore ways they can make BetBlocker available to their customers," ROGA will collaborate with its members.
BetBlocker was added to DraftKings' web app in 2022.