BetBlocker Review
The UK gambling industry generates billions in revenue annually. Such proceeds have a strong impact in fostering a healthy economy, but not without a few detrimental side-effects. Problem gambling is rife in the UK, affecting men and women of all age groups. However, men in the 20-49 age demographic are more susceptible to the harmful effects of online gambling. This is shown in a comprehensive study conducted by the UK government.
Enter BetBlocker – a platform that aids problem gamblers in tackling their compulsions. Heavy marketing strategies employed by online gaming platforms and regulatory loopholes can cause even self-excluded gamblers to return to their bad habits. BetBlocker is here to remedy that.
If you’re unfamiliar with this app, you can skip other BetBlocker reviews and read our full-scope analysis of the app.
What Is BetBlocker?
BetBlocker is a ‘charity’ completely funded by donations. It aims to support compulsive gamblers. It is a UK-based organisation providing a registration-free app. The platform helps you restrict gambling-related websites. Based on our analysis, BetBlocker performs two essential functions: full restriction of gambling platforms or limited access to such sites. Here are a few details.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | BetBlocker |
| Functionality | Gambling prevention, restriction, and limitation. |
| Cost | Free |
| Self-Exclusion | Activate BetBlocker self-restriction on your smartphone to restrict access to gaming sites in BetBlocker’s database. BetBlocker restricts access to over 70,000 sites and over 1,000 apps. |
| Parental Control | Download the app and tap on Parental Control to activate this feature. This helps you prevent your children from accessing undesirable websites. |
| Cross-Platform Support | Download BetBlocker on your computer, smartphone, or tablet to enable cross-platform restrictions. |
| Customisable Options | Customisation allows you to manage your gambling habits by selecting an exclusion type anywhere from a day to up to 5 years. Block or restrict access to gaming, adult, or other websites using passcodes for you or your family. |
How BetBlocker App Works
You might wonder, “How does BetBlocker work?” and we’ll tell you concisely. The software is relatively easy to get and set up. In fact, it would take you no more than a few minutes to get it going and customise it to your preference. You can visit the official website and familiarise yourself with the concept behind it. Or, read on and see the few simple steps to get the app running.
- Download the app.
Visit the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store and type BetBlocker in the search bar to locate the app. Tap the ‘Install’ button, and the app will download and install on your device. - Explore the features.
Everyone can set BetBlocker based on their needs and preferences. After downloading the app, open it and explore the available customisation options. - Allow access.
The download and installation are complete. Now, allow the app to access your media and toggle the relevant button to switch it ON, then select BACK. - Select your block type.
In the next step, select the type and duration of the restriction. You can block both gambling sites and sites that promote gambling. - Activate the VPN and complete the setup.
Lastly, set up a VPN connection to allow the app to track website traffic. Follow the on-site prompts to complete the setup to enable restriction to thousands of gaming websites.
Benefits of Using BetBlocker
The benefits of BetBlocker are manifold. From customisable features and parental control to responsible gaming management. While conducting our BetBlocker review, we detected five noteworthy advantages of the platform. These can assist problem gamblers and players who want to take a more cautious approach to gaming.
- Promotes Responsible Gambling
One of the main goals of BetBlocker is to promote safe and mindful gambling. People often think they are in control when, in fact, they are not. BetBlocker helps you gamble more responsibly by setting personal gaming limits. - Protects Vulnerable Individuals
Compulsive gamblers can take BetBlocker a step further. They can partially or completely restrict access to gaming sites. Emergency help, support groups, and treatment are a few of BetBlocker’s features that can protect vulnerable gamers. - Supports Cross-Platform Compatibility
BetBlocker’s cross-platform compatibility marks it quite useful. Dozens of tablet and smartphone models powered by iOS and Android systems can support the app. - Free of Charge
Being a charity funded completely by donations, BetBlocker is offered free. The app and all the services it provides are available at no cost. - Positive Feedback and Reputation
BetBlocker has had a positive reception from gamblers worldwide. We read dozens of reviews, with the majority of users singing the app’s praises for its efficacy and simplicity.
Comparison with Other Gambling Blockers
BetBlocker can offer plenty of support to limit or restrict access to sites promoting gambling. But you can also explore other options, such as GamBan and GamStop. But take notice that GamStop applies only to UK-licenced sites. There are dozens of online casinos and bookmakers not on GamStop that you can still access. This is a chink in the armour of this gambling-blocking service. Here’s how these three services compare to one another.
| Feature | BetBlocker | GamStop | Gamban |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-exclusion | Supported | Supported | Supported |
| Parental control | Yes | No | Yes |
| Cross-platform | iOS, Android, Windows, Linux, Fire OS, App Gallery | iOS, Android | iOS, Android, Windows, MacOS |
| Customisation options | Self-restriction, parental control, adjustable timeframes, calendaring feature | Block bank transactions, customisable self-exclusion, integration with other blocking platforms | General blocking options, gambling blocking options, multi-layered self-exclusion, bank freeze |
| Price | Free | Free | 7-day free trial + pricing plans |
Alternatives to BetBlocker App
Where there’s a will, there is a way, and persistent individuals can find ways to get around Gamban or GamStop. But these are only two of the multiple dedicated groups that offer gambling prevention services. If you’re UK-based, you have several available options. To learn more, read our following reviews of the top gambling restriction services.
- Gamblock Review
- Gamban Review
- GamStop Review
- GamCare Review
User Feedback and Reviews
We examined hundreds of user reviews across online forums, app stores, and other reliable sources on the Internet. Our review team decided to share a few outside opinions for a more comprehensive view of the app.
One anonymous Trustpilot user pointed out they initially had trouble getting the app up and running. However, after reaching out to customer services, the issue was resolved, and they were able to get the app working.
Another BetBlocker user highlighted the app’s cross-device compatibility and usability. This person also stressed the responsive customer support team. They noted the app doesn’t affect the functionality of your device or your internet signal.
A commenter on an Amazon customer review page left a favourable rating while sharing valuable insight. After updating their device, the user noticed you have to activate BetBlocker again manually. The app is automatically disabled every time your device undergoes a software upgrade.
Does BetBlocker Work?
BetBlocker works quite well once you learn how to handle it. Some users have reported technical issues with the app and complained about the setup. But those are minor functionality difficulties, all of which have been sorted out by customer support or BetBlocker’s IT team.
Concerning overall usability, BetBlocker is quite useful. It is an excellent tool to curb your gaming habits or restrict them entirely. After you install the app, you can set it up for a temporary or indefinite exclusion. Once the restrictions are active, you can type any known UK online bookmaker or casino site in the address bar, and access will be prohibited.