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How To Block Betting Sites

As online gambling becomes popular, many people are drawn into this tempting world, and that includes betting sites. While for the majority of people, gambling is just another form of entertainment, for others, this leads to unhealthy habits and financial strain. A 2023 study suggested that as many as 1 in 30 adults in Ireland have trouble controlling their gambling. 


Widespread use of mobile devices has made it easier to access betting websites, and online gambling accounts for around 60% of the wagers placed by Irish people suffering from a gambling addiction. This means that knowing how to block betting sites could prove very valuable if you notice your own gambling habits, or those of someone you know, are no longer under control. 


Do you want to learn how to block betting sites and curb gambling addiction? Then read on!

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This page is written by
Siobhan Aslett
Siobhan AslettIrish Sportsbook Specialist
Fact Checked By
Rebecca Mackay
Rebecca MackayHead of Content
According to our Editorial Guide

Quick Answer

Different software is available to block betting sites. Here is a breakdown of what reliable software can do:

  • Block any site on Safari, Chrome, Edge, and other browsers with a password.

  • Block sites in specific categories, such as betting sites, with just one click.

  • Block specific pages, sites and URLs on different devices, like iPads and iPhones.

  • Block all sites except the ones you allow.

  • Lock individual apps with passwords.

  • Allow you to block sites and lock apps at scheduled times or permanently.

💡 It's important to mention that betting site-blocking software comes in two types. We have betting-specific software that targets betting platforms and ensures you can't access blocked websites. Another is general software that blocks any website, mainly used for safer browsing and parental controls.

What Software Can I Use to Block Betting Sites?

While doing our research, we came across different self-exclusion services that prevent individuals with gambling problems from accessing betting sites. We also found other tools that can be used to block not only gambling sites, but others that you might want to restrict access to for yourself or your children. 

Gamban

Offers a reliable self-exclusion service to restrict access to betting sites and casino apps, including niche-specific ones such as eSports gambling. You can use Gamban across different devices without any extra fee. It also offers one of the best exclusions and cool-off features.

BetBlocker

This is free software designed to help individuals restrict their access to casino apps and betting websites. It's available to download on devices like your Mac or Windows PC, and on operating systems like iOS, Android, Linux, Huawei, and Fire OS. Once you install and activate it, you cannot access many betting sites. You can install BetBlocker on as many devices as you want for free.  

image of a man holding cards

NetNanny

This is a generic site blocker and monitoring software parents use to monitor online activities. However, you can also use it to block betting sites.

A five-device pass will cost $79.90 annually. Because it was not created to block betting websites, NetNanny might be easier for compulsive users to work around than Betblocker or Gamban. Someone you trust should set the “parent” password if you opt for NetNanny.

GamBlock

This effective gambling-specific software offers robust online protection that proxies and VPNs can't bypass. Even better, once installed, the software cannot be removed until the period it has been set for elapses. Isn’t that cool?

Blocking Casino Sites on iPhones

You can effectively block betting sites on your iPhone using various methods.

Use Screen Time Feature

The iPhone has a screen time feature that lets you set website access and app usage restrictions. The steps to follow include:

  1. Press on the “Settings” icon on your iPhone.

  2. Tap on the “Screen time.” And turn it on if it's off.

  3. Tap on “Content & Privacy” restrictions on the screen and enable the toggle on the next screen.

  4. Tap on the “Content Restriction” button to access a list of content restrictions you can allow.

  5. Tap on the “Web Content” tab and set the limits for casino apps and betting sites you want to avoid.

  6. Press on “Limit Adult Websites”. Here, add the specific gambling websites to the “Never Allow” section.

Using Gambling-Specific Blocking Sites

Go to the Apple Store and download and install Gamban.

💡 Another good option is NetNanny, but use the paid version.

How to Block Gambling Sites on Windows PC

To block betting sites on a Windows PC, use the following options:

Browser Extension

Installing browser extensions is the most effective way to block betting sites. The best extensions to use include:

  • BlockSite

  • StayFocused

With BlockSite, you can block any site for as long as you want, remove distractions, block adult content, and customise your browsing environment. On the other hand, StayFocused allows you to limit the time you intend to spend on a specific website.

Install Gambling-Specific Software

To block betting websites on Windows, you can install the following gambling-specific software:

  • Once you install GamBlock, you can’t uninstall it until the set period elapses.

  • Use the paid NetNanny version for better results.

  • Use Betfilter to block all betting sites on your PC.

Bet Blocker is available on Linux and Mac. This software's uniqueness lies in the ability to restrict yourself in advance using the calendar feature. Setting up takes a few minutes, and no registration is needed.

How to Block Betting Sites Via Router

In the above options, we discussed how to block betting sites using gambling-specific blocking software. These work effectively on a single gadget and provide several advanced features. However, router-level self-exclusion solutions are more efficient and convenient, especially when you use several devices. Some routers come with built-in content filtering features and parental control tools. This lets you restrict access to harmful content, such as betting sites, on all gadgets connected to the router.

This option is ideal for home settings and public and corporate networks. Take the following steps:

  1. Input the router’s IP address into the browser’s address bar.

  2. Use your username and password to log in. You’ll have access to the settings section.

  3. In settings, find web filter, website filtering, URL filter, parental controls, or a similar option.

  4. Input the keywords or URL of the betting sites to the blacklist. Set the router to block the betting category if it supports blocking sites by category.

  5. Save the settings and restart the router.

To avoid the temptation to access betting sites, we advise you to ask a trusted individual to create the router's new password after you finish configuring its settings.

mobile casinos ireland

How Banks Can Help You Curb Gambling Addiction

While blocking your bank accounts might seem extreme, it may be necessary at some point. Most financial institutions offer blocking services to help clients with gambling addiction restrict their spending on betting. This is a perfect option if you feel you are spending too much and that it's affecting your finances.

Some of the blocking features the banks offer include:

  • Card-blocking features.

  • Blocking card payments to betting sites.

  • Freezing and unfreezing different types of transactions on their card

  • Remove or add gambling restrictions on their card.

💡We also have created a guide on how to block casino sites.

Other Effective Ways to Curb Gambling Addiction

Using gambling-specific software to block betting sites isn’t the only way to deal with gambling addiction. There are other methods you can consider to assist. They include:

Icon of a white padlock with a green keyhole on a yellow background

The Gamblers Anonymous 12-step program

You’ll be assigned a sponsor who was a former addict to gambling. They will offer guidance and insights on how to overcome addiction. So, try to reach out.

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Reading other individuals' stories about overcoming addictions

Learning from others’ experiences of overcoming addiction can be incredibly motivating. Hearing their stories and strategies might inspire you to take similar steps and remind you that recovery is possible.

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Identifying what makes you gamble

If you use gambling as a way to soothe yourself, try to find other healthy ways to relax. You can visit a friend who doesn’t bet, exercise, learn relaxation techniques, or start a new hobby.

Online gambling poses some unique challenges in the current digital era, thanks to its accessibility and allure. But with these challenges, there is still room for growth, empowerment, and self-discovery. Players need to explore and implement the options to block or limit access to betting websites, which set boundaries and provide informed choices. When used effectively, these tools testify to your dedication to healthy habits and personal growth.

Irishluck and Responsible Gambling

Irishluck takes responsible gambling very seriously. Check out our popular guides containing everything you need to know to make gambling a safe and fun experience.

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Sports & sportsbook expert of 8 years. Specialising in a subject close to her heart, sports, Siobhan informs online sports betting fans about the latest news & best sports betting sites.

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