Online Gaming Advocacy Group Plans to Champion BetBlocker Software
In a significant move towards promoting responsible online gaming, the Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) has partnered with BetBlocker, a Scotland-based charity that provides a free, anonymous gambling-blocking software. This partnership aims to help problem gamblers in the United States by making this practical resource more visible and accessible [1][2][5].
BetBlocker is a powerful tool that blocks a device's access to over 118,000 gambling websites and more than 1,500 gambling-related apps. It takes only minutes to install and set up, and it does not require any personal information [1]. The software restricts a device's internet access to any gambling URL in its database, which is updated weekly [1][5].
ROGA's executive director, Dr. Jennifer Shatley, stated that the partnership is a way to put their mission into action, equipping individuals with practical tools that support their decisions and well-being [1]. Duncan Garvie, BetBlocker's founder, expressed delight at partnering with ROGA to expand access to BetBlocker across the United States, helping tens of thousands of people manage their relationship with gambling [1].
The partnership between ROGA and BetBlocker represents a coordinated industry effort to raise responsible gaming standards through innovation and evidence-based tools. ROGA promotes BetBlocker to make such resources more visible and accessible, empowering users to seek help voluntarily and reducing stigma [1][5].
This partnership complements ROGAβs broader work on responsible gambling mechanisms, including plans for a data clearinghouse to enable self-exclusion across multiple operators. BetBlocker extends player protection beyond regulated platforms, ensuring help is available in various online gambling contexts [5].
Notably, DraftKings implemented BetBlocker in its online app in 2022 [3]. Every licensed online sportsbook and iGaming operator is required to offer responsible gaming tools [4]. However, unregulated gaming continues to market to U.S. players, making it easy for problem gamblers to find places to gamble online [4].
ROGA will work with its members to explore ways to make BetBlocker available to their customers. Currently, ROGA has eight members, including FanDuel, DraftKings, Fanatics, Hard Rock Digital, Bally's, bet365, and Penn Entertainment (ESPN Bet) [2].
It is important to note that once a self-restriction is initiated on a device, it cannot be interrupted until the set time expires [1]. Uninstalling BetBlocker does not remove the self-imposed online gambling ban [1]. BetBlocker is entirely funded by donations and is free for users to download and use [1].
In conclusion, the partnership between ROGA and BetBlocker is a significant step towards promoting safer gambling environments in the United States. By making practical tools like BetBlocker more accessible, problem gamblers can take control of their gambling habits and seek help without cost or stigma.
[1] https://www.betblocker.org/ [2] https://www.rogagaming.org/ [3] https://www.draftkings.com/sportsbook/responsible-gaming [4] https://www.rogagaming.org/resources/ [5] https://www.rogagaming.org/news/roga-and-betblocker-partner-to-expand-access-to-gambling-blocking-software-in-the-united-states/
- The Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) has partnered with BetBlocker, a charity from Scotland, to increase visibility and accessibility of gambling-blocking software in the United States.
- BetBlocker is a tool that blocks access to over 118,000 gambling websites and 1,500 gambling-related apps, needing only minutes to install and set up without any personal information.
- ROGA's executive director, Dr. Jennifer Shatley, stated that this partnership helps put their mission into action, equipping individuals with practical tools to support their decisions and well-being.
- The partnership between ROGA and BetBlocker represents a coordinated industry effort to raise responsible gaming standards, making resources like BetBlocker more visible and accessible, and empowering users to seek help voluntarily.
- BetBlocker extends player protection beyond regulated platforms, ensuring help is available in various online gambling contexts, and is entirely funded by donations, being free for users to download and use.
- DraftKings has already implemented BetBlocker in its online app, and every licensed online sportsbook and iGaming operator is required to offer responsible gaming tools.
- ROGA will work with its members, including FanDuel, DraftKings, Fanatics, Hard Rock Digital, Bally's, bet365, and Penn Entertainment (ESPN Bet), to explore ways to make BetBlocker available to their customers, aiming to create safer gambling environments in the United States.
