Major Online Gambling Operators Turn to BetBlocker

In recent months, there has been a major push among top online gambling operators to do more to battle problem gambling issues. This is clearly an effort to protect the nation's online gambling enthusiasts while also attempting to appease legislators.

The Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) has announced an alignment with BetBlocker. BetBlocker offers a bet-blocking software that allows gamblers and or their family members to restrict access to online gambling sites operating throughout the world.

BetBlocker founder Duncan Garvie is thrilled with having the opportunity to help provide U.S. online gambling operators with a problem gambling resource that is designed to help mediate problem gambling issues. In a press release, he stated:

"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." He then added: "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."

How BetBlocker's Software Works

After downloading he company's software on a PC, laptop, or mobile device, online gamblers are given the ability to self-exclude from online gambling activities. They can exclude themselves from having online gambling access for a stated period or indefinitely. Once the ban has been initiated, it cannot be reversed on the device on which it was installed. The user will, in fact, be banned until the stated exclusion period concludes. Being device-sensitive, users would have to download the software on all devices they might use for online gambling purposes.

Note: There is a "scheduling tool" that allows users to restrict gambling access to specific types of online gambling (casinos, lottery sites, and sportsbooks). Access can also be blocked to specific types of sports betting markets, such as the NBA, NFL, or NCAA football. This feature is unique in comparison to other prominent self-exclusion software products.

The software is designed to identify keywords associated with online gambling. Once a keyword has been entered and identified, the software will immediately deny access to the site in question with no available overrides.

The Software's Rollout

ROGA will start this process by featuring the BetBlocker software product on its own website. That's phase one. After that, its eight-member operators will be asked to include links to the software directly from their websites.

Current membership with ROGA includes the following U.S. online gambling operators:

• Bally's Corp


• 365Bet


• BetMGM


• DraftKings


• Fanatics Betting and Gaming


• Fanduel


• Hard Rock Digital


• PENN Entertainment
  

At 90% of the U.S. online gambling industry, this represents great coverage for potential U.S.-based online gamblers.

Proudly, ROGA Executive Director Dr. Jennifer Shatley shared this with the press: Regarding the inclusion of this software,

"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.” 

U.S. online gamblers are strongly encouraged to take a look at all available problem gambling resources before the need arises.