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Online Gaming Advocacy Group Plans to Champion BetBlocker Software

Online Gaming Association Commits Collaboration with BetBlocker for Enhanced User Availability within the United States

Online Gaming Association Pursues Promotion of BetBlocker for Responsible Gambling
Online Gaming Association Pursues Promotion of BetBlocker for Responsible Gambling

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 ROGA’s 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/

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