Blocking Gambling Sites — Tools That Work

Sometimes the most effective way to stop gambling is to make it physically harder to access gambling sites. Blocking software and browser extensions can prevent you from visiting casinos, sportsbooks, and betting sites—even if you're tempted. These tools add an extra layer of protection beyond self-exclusion and deposit limits, especially if you struggle with impulsive urges or if you're trying to support someone else's recovery. This guide covers the most effective blocking tools available, how they work, and how to set them up.

Why Blocking Tools Help

Self-exclusion programs like GAMSTOP block you from UK-licensed casinos, but they can't prevent you from visiting unlicensed sites or accidentally stumbling onto gambling ads and promotions. Blocking tools fill this gap by: - Preventing access to gambling websites at the browser or device level - Blocking unlicensed and offshore gambling sites - Filtering gambling-related ads and content - Adding friction to impulsive decisions—even a few seconds of delay can break the urge Blocking tools work best when combined with self-exclusion and other responsible gambling measures. They're not foolproof, but they make it significantly harder to gamble on impulse.

Types of Blocking Tools

There are several types of tools available, each with different strengths:

Browser Extensions

Lightweight add-ons that block gambling sites at the browser level.

Software Programs

Desktop and mobile apps that block gambling sites across all browsers and apps.

Parental Controls

Built-in device settings or ISP services that restrict access to gambling content.

Network-Level Blocking

Router or DNS settings that block gambling sites for all devices on a network. We'll cover each type in detail below.

Best Browser Extensions for Blocking Gambling Sites

Browser extensions are easy to install and work immediately. They block gambling sites whenever you try to visit them in that specific browser.

Gamban (Browser Extension)

- Platforms: Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari - Cost: Free trial; subscription required for full access - How it works: Blocks access to thousands of gambling sites, including unlicensed operators - Strength: Comprehensive database, hard to disable once installed - Limitation: Only works on the browser where it's installed

Bet Blocker (Free)

- Platforms: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Android, iOS - Cost: Free - How it works: Blocks over 84,000 gambling websites and apps - Strength: Free, open-source, covers licensed and unlicensed sites - Limitation: Can be disabled by uninstalling the extension

Cold Turkey Blocker

- Platforms: Windows, Mac - Cost: Free (basic), paid (advanced features) - How it works: Blocks websites, apps, and even the entire internet if needed - Strength: Highly customizable, can block specific sites or all distractions - Limitation: Requires manual setup; advanced features cost money

Software Programs for Device-Wide Blocking

If you want protection across all browsers and apps on your device, software programs are more effective than browser extensions.

Gamban (Full Software)

- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS - Cost: Subscription (around $2–$4/month) - How it works: Blocks gambling sites and apps across all browsers and applications on your device - Strength: Extremely comprehensive; covers tens of thousands of sites and apps - Cannot be easily disabled: You can't simply uninstall it—requires customer support to remove - Best for: Serious protection across all devices

Bet Blocker (Full Software)

- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS - Cost: Free - How it works: Blocks gambling sites and apps system-wide - Strength: Free and effective - Limitation: Can be uninstalled more easily than Gamban

Net Nanny

- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS - Cost: Subscription - How it works: Parental control software that can block gambling, adult content, and other categories - Strength: Flexible filtering options; good for families - Limitation: Designed for parental control, not specifically for gambling recovery

Parental Controls and Device Settings

If you don't want to install third-party software, most devices have built-in parental controls that can block gambling sites.

iOS (iPhone/iPad)

1. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions2. Enable Content Restrictions3. Select Web Content > Limit Adult Websites4. Add specific gambling sites to the "Never Allow" list

Android

1. Download Google Family Link or use your device's parental control settings 2. Set up content filtering 3. Block specific websites or categories

Windows

1. Use Microsoft Family Safety to set up parental controls 2. Block gambling websites and set time limits

Mac

1. Go to System Preferences > Screen Time > Content & Privacy2. Enable Limit Adult Websites3. Add gambling sites to the restricted list

Network-Level Blocking (Router & DNS)

If you want to block gambling sites for all devices on your home network (phones, tablets, computers), you can configure your router or use a DNS-based blocking service.

OpenDNS (Cisco Umbrella)

- Cost: Free (basic), paid (advanced) - How it works: Changes your DNS settings to block gambling and other categories of websites - Strength: Blocks all devices connected to your network - Setup: Requires changing DNS settings on your router or individual devices

CleanBrowsing

- Cost: Free (basic), paid (advanced) - How it works: DNS-based filtering that blocks gambling, adult content, and malware - Strength: Easy to set up; covers all devices on your network

Router-Level Blocking

Most modern routers allow you to block specific websites: 1. Log into your router's admin panel (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) 2. Find the "Parental Controls" or "Website Blocking" section 3. Add gambling site URLs to the block list 4. Save settings This method blocks sites for everyone using your Wi-Fi, which is useful if you're supporting a family member's recovery.

How to Choose the Right Tool

The best blocking tool depends on your situation:

If you need quick, free protection:

- Use Bet Blocker (browser extension or software)

If you need comprehensive, hard-to-remove protection:

- Use Gamban (subscription required, but very effective)

If you're blocking sites for a family member:

- Use parental controls or network-level blocking (OpenDNS, router settings)

If you want to block all distractions, not just gambling:

- Use Cold Turkey Blocker (highly customizable)

Limitations of Blocking Tools

No blocking tool is perfect. Here's what they can't do: - They can be bypassed: Determined users can uninstall software, use VPNs, or switch to another device. - They don't address the root cause: Blocking sites is a preventative measure, but it doesn't treat gambling addiction. - They may not catch every site: New gambling sites appear regularly, and some may slip through filters. - They can be inconvenient: You might accidentally block legitimate sites or need to adjust settings frequently. Blocking tools work best as part of a broader recovery plan that includes self-exclusion, support groups, and professional help.

Combining Blocking Tools with Other Measures

For maximum protection, use blocking tools alongside: - GAMSTOP: Blocks you from all UK-licensed gambling sites - Self-exclusion: Direct exclusion from specific casinos - Deposit and loss limits: Financial safeguards if you do access a site - Support services: Professional help from GamCare, BeGambleAware, or Gamblers Anonymous The more layers of protection you have, the harder it becomes to gamble impulsively.

What If You're Blocking Sites for Someone Else

If you're setting up blocking tools for a family member or friend: - Get their consent: Forcing blocking tools on someone who isn't ready can cause resentment. - Use network-level blocking: Router or OpenDNS settings affect all devices on the network. - Combine with support: Blocking sites won't solve the problem alone—encourage them to seek help. - Avoid being controlling: Support their recovery without micromanaging.