Blocking software is a type of computer programme or app that stops you looking at specific websites or services. Many people tell us blocking software is a useful tool if they find it hard to control their gambling.

There are two kinds of blocking software:

• Gambling-specific blocking software, which is designed to block gambling websites.
• General blocking software, which is designed to block any sites you want and set access permissions or parental controls.

Where can I find blocking software?

We have listed some of the products available. We encourage you to do your own research to find out which is the best product for you. Please remember that GamCare cannot be held responsible if there is a problem with the software you choose.

For smartphones and tablets, you can also search on the App store or the Google Play. If you are using iOS, on an iPhone or iPad, you can also use the inbuilt parental blocker that will stop you being able to look at to gambling related content. Get someone else to set it up for you so you don’t know the password.

Will blocking software stop me gambling?

Adding blocking software on your devices is a great start, but a combination of practical tools and support can often be the key to making a lasting difference.

Gamban - www.gamban.com (Mac OS X, Windows, Android and iOS).

We are currently working with Gamban to pilot free access to their blocking software alongside other tools and support including GAMSTOP self-exclusion, part of our TalkBanStop campaign. We therefore recommend using Gamban as your blocking software of choice. Click here to contact us and you will be able to receive a free Gamban licence for up to 15 devices.

However, there are a range of other products available that you might prefer, which we’ve listed below. These are examples of gambling-specific blocking software. Some of these are available for free, some might ask you to pay.

Gamblock - www.gamblock.com (Windows computers and Android phones)

Betfilter - www.betfilter.com (Windows, Mac, Android and iOS)

BetBlocker - https://betblocker.org/ (Windows, Linux and Mac)

Netnanny - www.netnanny.com – Netnanny is a general blocking software and has capability on Windows computers, ioS, and Android phones.