How to block access to gambling sites
Introduction
With gambling problems, the key step to regaining control is to eliminate temptation. Technical blocking of access to gaming resources creates the necessary pause to develop new habits. Below are all the relevant methods: from simple extensions to powerful network filters.
1. Network layer: blocking on the router
1. DNS filtration
OpenDNS FamilyShield
DNS servers: '208. 67. 222. 123 'and' 208. 67. 220. 123`
Automatically blocks gambling and adult content categories.
CleanBrowsing
DNS: `185. 228. 168. 168` / `185. 228. 169. 168`
Security or Adult mode with the ability to add domains manually.
Control
1. Open the administrator panel of the router (usually '192. 168. 0. 1 'or' 192. 168. 1. 1`).
2. Under WAN or Internet, locate the DNS fields.
3. Replace the current addresses with filter addresses and reboot the device.
2. Benefits and limitations
Protects all devices on the network without installing software.
Does not filter traffic through VPN/proxy.
2. Operating System and Application Layer
1. Windows (Family Safety)
1. In "Options →" "Accounts" → "Family and other users" add a children's account.
2. Through family. microsoft. com set web filtering, enable blocking of the "Gambling" category.
3. Set time limits to reduce the risk of getting around through a new account.
2. macOS (Screen Time)
1. System Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy.
2. Web Content tab: Select Restrict Adult Sites and add a list of unwanted URLs.
3. iOS / iPadOS
1. Settings → Screen Time → Content and Privacy Restrictions.
2. Web Content → Restrict Adult Sites → Add Site → enter operator URLs.
4. Android (Google Family Link/third-party)
Google Family Link: Link a child account, turn on "Site Filtering" → "Block Unwanted."
Applications: Qustodio, Norton Family are installed as VPNs and block gambling sites from extensive databases.
3. Specialized gambling blockers
1. Gamban
Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS).
Free to Australian residents through Gambler's Help.
Blocks all known domains and mobile gambling applications.
2. BetBlocker
Open source, runs on Windows, macOS and Linux.
Category "Gambling" in the blocking list; built-in pause timer.
3. GamBlock
Paid software with PIN-protection of settings, white/black URL lists, reporting on access attempts.
Support for schedules and access levels.
4. Blocking via browser
1. Extensions for Chrome and Firefox
BlockSite
Blocks specified sites and categories, turns on "work mode" with a timer.
StayFocusd (Chrome)
Sets time limits for certain sites; "Nuclear Option" - complete blocking.
LeechBlock NG (Firefox)
Flexible rules for URL templates, time of day, and session duration.
2. Control
1. Install the extension from the official store.
2. Add domain lists of major online casinos and popular betting platforms.
3. Protect your settings with a password or PIN.
5. Additional measures
1. Editing the hosts file
Add to 'C :\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts' or '/etc/hosts' strings of the form:
2. Combination of methods
Combine network filters, OS restrictions, and application blockers for layered protection.
3. Storing passwords with proxies
Transfer credentials from blocking services to a friend or loved one to make it difficult to disconnect yourself.
6. Support and next steps
1. BetStop self-exclusion
Log in to betstop. gov. au to block official licensed platforms.
2. Hotlines and online chats
Gambler’s Help: 1800 858 858
GambleAware online chat 24/7
3. Social and professional assistance
Gamblers Anonymous: Weekly meetings in your area.
Psychological and financial counseling through public services.
Conclusion
Technical blocking of gambling sites is an effective tool on the way to control, but only part of a comprehensive solution. Use a layered approach: network filters, system restrictions, specialized applications and social support. This will create reliable barriers and allow you to develop new, healthy habits.
With gambling problems, the key step to regaining control is to eliminate temptation. Technical blocking of access to gaming resources creates the necessary pause to develop new habits. Below are all the relevant methods: from simple extensions to powerful network filters.
1. Network layer: blocking on the router
1. DNS filtration
OpenDNS FamilyShield
DNS servers: '208. 67. 222. 123 'and' 208. 67. 220. 123`
Automatically blocks gambling and adult content categories.
CleanBrowsing
DNS: `185. 228. 168. 168` / `185. 228. 169. 168`
Security or Adult mode with the ability to add domains manually.
Control
1. Open the administrator panel of the router (usually '192. 168. 0. 1 'or' 192. 168. 1. 1`).
2. Under WAN or Internet, locate the DNS fields.
3. Replace the current addresses with filter addresses and reboot the device.
2. Benefits and limitations
Protects all devices on the network without installing software.
Does not filter traffic through VPN/proxy.
2. Operating System and Application Layer
1. Windows (Family Safety)
1. In "Options →" "Accounts" → "Family and other users" add a children's account.
2. Through family. microsoft. com set web filtering, enable blocking of the "Gambling" category.
3. Set time limits to reduce the risk of getting around through a new account.
2. macOS (Screen Time)
1. System Settings → Screen Time → Content & Privacy.
2. Web Content tab: Select Restrict Adult Sites and add a list of unwanted URLs.
3. iOS / iPadOS
1. Settings → Screen Time → Content and Privacy Restrictions.
2. Web Content → Restrict Adult Sites → Add Site → enter operator URLs.
4. Android (Google Family Link/third-party)
Google Family Link: Link a child account, turn on "Site Filtering" → "Block Unwanted."
Applications: Qustodio, Norton Family are installed as VPNs and block gambling sites from extensive databases.
3. Specialized gambling blockers
1. Gamban
Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS).
Free to Australian residents through Gambler's Help.
Blocks all known domains and mobile gambling applications.
2. BetBlocker
Open source, runs on Windows, macOS and Linux.
Category "Gambling" in the blocking list; built-in pause timer.
3. GamBlock
Paid software with PIN-protection of settings, white/black URL lists, reporting on access attempts.
Support for schedules and access levels.
4. Blocking via browser
1. Extensions for Chrome and Firefox
BlockSite
Blocks specified sites and categories, turns on "work mode" with a timer.
StayFocusd (Chrome)
Sets time limits for certain sites; "Nuclear Option" - complete blocking.
LeechBlock NG (Firefox)
Flexible rules for URL templates, time of day, and session duration.
2. Control
1. Install the extension from the official store.
2. Add domain lists of major online casinos and popular betting platforms.
3. Protect your settings with a password or PIN.
5. Additional measures
1. Editing the hosts file
Add to 'C :\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts' or '/etc/hosts' strings of the form:
- ```
- 0. 0. 0. 0 www.site1. com
- 0. 0. 0. 0 www.site2. com
- ```
- Suitable for the technically advanced, but easy to get by.
2. Combination of methods
Combine network filters, OS restrictions, and application blockers for layered protection.
3. Storing passwords with proxies
Transfer credentials from blocking services to a friend or loved one to make it difficult to disconnect yourself.
6. Support and next steps
1. BetStop self-exclusion
Log in to betstop. gov. au to block official licensed platforms.
2. Hotlines and online chats
Gambler’s Help: 1800 858 858
GambleAware online chat 24/7
3. Social and professional assistance
Gamblers Anonymous: Weekly meetings in your area.
Psychological and financial counseling through public services.
Conclusion
Technical blocking of gambling sites is an effective tool on the way to control, but only part of a comprehensive solution. Use a layered approach: network filters, system restrictions, specialized applications and social support. This will create reliable barriers and allow you to develop new, healthy habits.
