How to block access to gambling sites
Below are specific methods for blocking gambling platforms at the network, device and browser levels. Suitable for the protection of minors, and for their own discipline.
1. Blocking at the router level
1. DNS filtration
Register for the free OpenDNS FamilyShield service (208. 67. 222. 123 and 208. 67. 220. 123).
Replace the DNS servers in the router settings with their addresses: everything that is interpreted as "excitement" is automatically blocked.
2. Blocking lists (URL filter)
In the admin panel of the router, manually add the domains of casino and bookmaker sites to Blacklist.
Update once a week, taking into account the new subdomains of the operators.
3. Access schedule
Set the access time windows for the visited network:
- ```
- 00: 00-23: 59 - list lock
- 12: 00-14: 00 - access to educational and developmental resources
- ```
- Turn off Wi-Fi overnight through a timer.
2. Hosts file on computer
1. Windows / macOS / Linux
Open the hosts file (Windows: 'C :\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts'; macOS/Linux: `/etc/hosts`).
Add lines:
- ```
- 127. 0. 0. 1 poker. ru
- 127. 0. 0. 1 casino. com
- 127. 0. 0. 1 .bet
- ```
- Save and restart the browser.
2. Automatic update
Use a script or utility (for example, HostsMan) with daily import of the current list of gambling domains.
3. Browser extensions
1. BlockSite / LeechBlock
Install in Chrome, Firefox or Edge.
In the settings, add regular expressions to the directory of blocked URLs:
- ```
- : //*.poker.*/*
- : //*.casino.*/*
- : //*.bet/
- ```
- Turn on password protection for your settings.
2. StayFocusd
Configure "Allowed Sites Only" and add only the necessary educational and working resources to the list of allowed ones.
4. Parental Controls on Devices
1. Windows 10/11 Family Safety
Create a Microsoft children's account, turn on App and Game Control → Prohibit gambling sites.
In the Content section, enable URL filtering by Gambling category.
2. macOS Screen Time
System settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy → Web Content → "Limit Adult Websites."
In "Always Block" enter the key domains.
3. iOS / iPadOS
Настройки → Screen Time → Content & Privacy Restrictions → Web Content → «Limit Adult Websites».
Add gambling sites to "Never Allow."
4. Android (Family Link)
Create a child account, block the "Gambling" categories in the Google Play settings.
Install the Safe Browsing extensions in Chrome and enable Safe Search.
5. Carrier-level DNS blocking
Request to provider
Contact technical support and ask to add lists of gambling domains to their corporate DNS filter.
Often free as part of "safe internet for the family" services.
6. Bypassing locks and how to deal with it
1. VPN/Proxy detectors
On the router, enable DPI filtering or configure pfSense/Sophos Home to detect VPN traffic.
2. Regular updates
Keep lock bases up to date by adding new sub-domains and mirrors.
Result
A set of measures at three levels - network (router/DNS), devices (hosts, parental control) and browser (extensions) - provides reliable protection against access to gambling sites. Regularly update domain lists and check the effectiveness of settings to maintain safety and discipline.