Blocking sites through antivirus and DNS programs
Introduction
To dramatically reduce the risk of breaking with the decision to stop the game, it is important to block access to online casinos at the PC and network security level. Antiviruses with a web filtering module and DNS programs (OpenDNS, NextDNS, Pi-Hole) allow you to create a powerful barrier: sites will not open either in the browser or in applications.
1. Using antivirus with web filter
1. Choosing an antivirus
URL filtering support: Kaspersky, ESET, Bitdefender, Norton.
The Web Access Control or Web Protection module is required.
2. Configure category filtering
Open the antivirus console → Security Settings → Web Control.
Enable the Gambling category lock.
If necessary, manually add casino domains (casino. com, bet365. com, etc.).
3. Check of operation
Try to enter the blocked site: the antivirus should display the "Access denied" window, and in the log - a record of the connection attempt.
4. Advantages
Protection at the application and process level - not only browsers are blocked, but also any "built-in" web containers.
Automatic updates of category databases protect against new domains.
2. DNS programs and services
1. OpenDNS Home
Registering for home. opendns. com, getting a free profile.
Choosing a pre-installed profile "FamilyShield" (block of gambling, pornography, video hosting) or "Custom" → mark the Gambling category.
In the settings of the router or network adapter, register DNS servers:
2. NextDNS
Register for nextdns. io, create a profile.
In the "Security" and "Parental Control" sections, activate the blocking of the "Gambling" category.
Install the profile at the device level through the instructions for Windows/macOS/Android/iOS or on the router.
3. Pi-Hole (local DNS server)
Installation on Raspberry Pi or Docker.
Importing public blocking lists: gambling-hosts, adult-domains.
Configure DHCP mode or manually change the DNS address on devices (IP Pi-Hole) for the entire network.
4. Check
Run 'nslookup casino. com '- the request must return a local address (127. 0. 0. 1) or an error.
In the browser: an attempt to access the site will lead to a "not found" or service filtering page.
3. Combined approach
1. Combine antivirus and DNS blocking
The antivirus will block sites at the application level, and the DNS filter at the network level.
This removes loopholes when one solution fails.
2. Host file as backup
В Windows `C: \Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts`, macOS/Linux `/etc/hosts`:
3. Monitoring and reporting
In the antivirus and DNS service, periodically view the lock logs.
Make sure new casino subdomains and mirrors are also filtered.
4. Additional recommendations
1. Blocking payment channels
Notify the bank of your desire to prohibit transactions with payment providers associated with the casino.
Use prepaid cards with zero balance.
2. Browser soft blocks
LeechBlock, StayFocusd, BlockSite extensions add an additional layer of protection at the level of individual profiles.
3. Psychological triggers
Disable push notifications from casino apps and mailings.
When you want to play, switch to pre-prepared alternatives: walking, calling a friend, physical exercise.
Conclusion
Anti-virus web filters, coupled with DNS locks, create a reliable "double lock" to protect against online casinos. Spend an hour tuning in - and you get a virtually irresistible barrier that will prevent a sudden return to betting and help cement your decision to stop playing.
To dramatically reduce the risk of breaking with the decision to stop the game, it is important to block access to online casinos at the PC and network security level. Antiviruses with a web filtering module and DNS programs (OpenDNS, NextDNS, Pi-Hole) allow you to create a powerful barrier: sites will not open either in the browser or in applications.
1. Using antivirus with web filter
1. Choosing an antivirus
URL filtering support: Kaspersky, ESET, Bitdefender, Norton.
The Web Access Control or Web Protection module is required.
2. Configure category filtering
Open the antivirus console → Security Settings → Web Control.
Enable the Gambling category lock.
If necessary, manually add casino domains (casino. com, bet365. com, etc.).
3. Check of operation
Try to enter the blocked site: the antivirus should display the "Access denied" window, and in the log - a record of the connection attempt.
4. Advantages
Protection at the application and process level - not only browsers are blocked, but also any "built-in" web containers.
Automatic updates of category databases protect against new domains.
2. DNS programs and services
1. OpenDNS Home
Registering for home. opendns. com, getting a free profile.
Choosing a pre-installed profile "FamilyShield" (block of gambling, pornography, video hosting) or "Custom" → mark the Gambling category.
In the settings of the router or network adapter, register DNS servers:
- ```
- 208. 67. 222. 222
- 208. 67. 220. 220
- ```
2. NextDNS
Register for nextdns. io, create a profile.
In the "Security" and "Parental Control" sections, activate the blocking of the "Gambling" category.
Install the profile at the device level through the instructions for Windows/macOS/Android/iOS or on the router.
3. Pi-Hole (local DNS server)
Installation on Raspberry Pi or Docker.
Importing public blocking lists: gambling-hosts, adult-domains.
Configure DHCP mode or manually change the DNS address on devices (IP Pi-Hole) for the entire network.
4. Check
Run 'nslookup casino. com '- the request must return a local address (127. 0. 0. 1) or an error.
In the browser: an attempt to access the site will lead to a "not found" or service filtering page.
3. Combined approach
1. Combine antivirus and DNS blocking
The antivirus will block sites at the application level, and the DNS filter at the network level.
This removes loopholes when one solution fails.
2. Host file as backup
В Windows `C: \Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts`, macOS/Linux `/etc/hosts`:
- ```
- 127. 0. 0. 1 casino. com
- 127. 0. 0. 1 bet365. com
- ```
- Resetting DNS cache: 'ipconfig/flushdns' (Win) or 'sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder' (macOS).
3. Monitoring and reporting
In the antivirus and DNS service, periodically view the lock logs.
Make sure new casino subdomains and mirrors are also filtered.
4. Additional recommendations
1. Blocking payment channels
Notify the bank of your desire to prohibit transactions with payment providers associated with the casino.
Use prepaid cards with zero balance.
2. Browser soft blocks
LeechBlock, StayFocusd, BlockSite extensions add an additional layer of protection at the level of individual profiles.
3. Psychological triggers
Disable push notifications from casino apps and mailings.
When you want to play, switch to pre-prepared alternatives: walking, calling a friend, physical exercise.
Conclusion
Anti-virus web filters, coupled with DNS locks, create a reliable "double lock" to protect against online casinos. Spend an hour tuning in - and you get a virtually irresistible barrier that will prevent a sudden return to betting and help cement your decision to stop playing.
