Casino Restriction Programs and Applications

Introduction

Controlling access to gambling sites is an important element in overcoming addiction. Modern programs and mobile applications allow you to automatically block the platforms of casinos and bookmakers, creating a technical barrier that reduces the risk of an impulsive bet.

1. Cross-platform applications

Gamban

Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android.
Cost: Free for Australian residents via a link from Gambler's Help.
Functions:

• Blocks all known casino sites and applications.
• Does not allow deleting or disabling without credentials.
Setup:
• 1. Register through the Gamban website.
• 2. Download and install the client.
• 3. Please enter the provided activation code.

BetBlocker

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux.
Cost: free, open source.
Functions:
• Selection of categories for blocking (Gambling, Social Media, etc.).
• Timer for any lock period.
Setup:
• 1. Download from the official GitHub repository.
• 2. Install, select the "Gambling" category.
• 3. Set the lock period.

GamBlock

Platforms: Windows, macOS.
Cost: paid (approximately 20-30 AUD per year).
Functions:
• Support for PIN protection of settings.
• URL white and black lists, blocking schedule.
Setup:
• 1. Purchase a license from GamBlock.
• 2. Install the program and set the PIN.
• 3. Set up lists and schedule.

2. Mobile filters and parental controls

Qustodio

Platforms: iOS, Android.
Cost: there is a free version (basic filters); Pro version from 40 AUD/year.
Functions:
• Blocking categories of sites, including "Gambling."
• Application and screen time monitoring.
Setup:
• 1. Install Qustodio from the app store.
• 2. Create user profiles.
• 3. Enable filtering by Gambling category.

Norton Family

Platforms: Windows, Android.
Cost: Included in Norton 360 from AUD 80/year.
Functions:
• Filtering web content and applications.
• Reports of access attempts.
Setup:
• 1. Install Norton Family as part of the package.
• 2. Set up a family account and "Gambling" filtering goals.
• 3. Assign child profiles.

3. Browser Extensions

BlockSite (Chrome, Firefox)

Functions: blocking sites by list, schedules, "work mode" with a timer.
How to install:
• 1. Install the extension from the store.
• 2. In the settings, add casino domains ('* .casino', '* .bet', etc.).
• 3. Enable settings PIN protection.

StayFocusd (Chrome)

Features: Limit time to access selected sites; "Nuclear Option" - a complete lock until a given date.
How to install:
• 1. Install the extension.
• 2. In the "Blocked Sites" section, add the addresses of gambling platforms.
• 3. Set the access time - set 0 minutes.

LeechBlock NG (Firefox)

Functions: flexible rules on URL templates, time of day and session duration.
How to install:
• 1. Install from the add-ons directory.
• 2. Configure one or more blocking sets by specifying domain templates ('* gamble *', '* casino *').
• 3. Specify time limits.

4. Combined approach

1. DNS network filters

OpenDNS FamilyShield or CleanBrowsing on the router blocks gambling sites for all devices.
2. OS and SW level

Family Safety в Windows, Screen Time в macOS/iOS и Family Link в Android.
3. Specialized blockers

Gamban and BetBlocker for hard blocking.
4. Browser extensions

BlockSite and StayFocusd as an additional layer.

By combining tools, you create several barriers, which makes bypassing locks more difficult and supports your refusal to gamble.

Conclusion

Choosing the right app or program combination depends on your devices and willingness to invest time or money. Free solutions (BetBlocker, BlockSite) and state-sponsored (Gamban) do an excellent job, and paid packages (GamBlock, Norton Family) add flexibility. Set up multiple levels of filtering, transfer passwords to a trusted person and thereby strengthen your chances of successfully restricting access to the casino.