Using blocking applications (Gamban, BetBlocker, etc.)

Introduction

Blocking applications (Gamban, BetBlocker, GamStop-compatible solutions, etc.) help restrict access to online casinos and betting sites at the device level. In Australia, together with government and banking measures, they create an additional frontier of self-restraint without operator involvement.

1. Overview of popular applications

ApplicationPlatformsPriceFeatures
GambanWindows, macOS, iOS, AndroidSubscription from £5 per monthThe largest database of sites and applications, DNS-level protection
BetBlockerWindows, macOS, Linux, iOS, AndroidFreeOpen Source, Custom Domain Lists
GamBlockWindows, macOSLicense from €20 per yearLocal hosts-blocking, support for VPN-IP lists
BlockerXAndroidFree/ProBlocking gambling categories, schedule
SelfControlmacOSFreehosts file + keyword filtering

2. Principle of operation

1. DNS filtering and redirection
- Interception of requests to game domains and redirection to a local address (127. 0. 0. 1).
2. Modifying the hosts file
- Adds a list of blocked URLs/IPs to the System file.
3. Browser and system extensions
- Control HTTP (S) requests at the application and extension level.
4. List synchronization
- Automatic update of the database of gambling operators through the cloud or open repositories.

3. Installation and configuration

3. 1 Gamban

1. Go to the official website of the gamban. com and subscribe.
2. Download the installation file for your OS.
3. Set and create an administrator password to manage the application.
4. Activate your subscription - the application will automatically download the list of game domains.

3. 2 BetBlocker

1. On GitHub, find the BetBlocker repository and download the distribution.
2. Install the application, enter the e-mail to synchronize the lists.
3. If desired, go to Settings → Custom Lists and add your own URLs.
4. Enable automatic startup at system startup.

3. 3 GamBlock / SelfControl / BlockerX

1. Download the distribution kit from the official website or app store.
2. If necessary, run the program as an administrator (to modify the hosts file).
3. In the settings, set the blocking schedule (for example, 00: 00-23: 59 for full permanent blocking).
4. Check the functionality by trying to open a casino through a browser and VPN.

4. Tips for effective use

1. Protect the blocker administrator password - so as not to accidentally remove the block.
2. Combine applications with BetStop and bank MCC filters for multi-level protection.
3. Regularly update programs and domain lists - new operators appear daily.
4. Do not count on 100% bypass resistance - periodically test access under different VPN profiles.

5. Restrictions and possible bypasses

VPN and proxy services can change IP and DNS requests, bypassing blocking if the application does not filter at the hosts level.
The user level with administrator rights can manually clear the hosts file or disable the service.
New operator subdomains may not immediately get into the lists - crawl windows are possible before updating the database.

Conclusion

Gamban, BetBlocker and analogs provide a reliable first line of defense against impulsive access to gambling on devices. Combined with BetStop, bank limits and technical filters, they form a comprehensive system of responsible play in Australia. Set them up correctly, protect administrative passwords and update databases - and you get effective control over excitement.