Introduction to Responsible Online Gaming
The Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) has partnered with BetBlocker, a Scotland-based charity, to provide consumers in the United States with expanded access to block their access to online gambling. This partnership aims to promote responsible gaming and support individuals in managing their relationship with gambling.
What is BetBlocker?
BetBlocker is a free app that blocks a device’s access to over 118,000 gambling websites and more than 1,500 gambling-related apps. The app is easy to install and set up, taking only minutes, and does not require any personal information. BetBlocker’s database is updated weekly and includes both regulated and unregulated gambling websites and apps.
How BetBlocker Works
Installing BetBlocker on an internet-connected device restricts access to any gambling URL in the BetBlocker database. Once a self-restriction is initiated on the device, the restriction cannot be interrupted until the set time expires. Uninstalling BetBlocker does not remove the self-imposed online gambling ban. BetBlocker’s website explains that they “go to great lengths to ensure that BetBlocker is as difficult to remove as possible during a Gambling Self-Restriction, and our User Support Team will not assist you in removing the tool while there is an ongoing restriction.”
Benefits of the Partnership
The partnership between ROGA and BetBlocker includes promoting the responsible gaming tool, which is available worldwide. ROGA’s executive director, Dr. Jennifer Shatley, stated that “making resources like BetBlocker more visible and accessible is one way we put that mission into action. We’re equipping individuals with practical tools that support their decisions and well-being.” BetBlocker’s founder, Duncan Garvie, added that “by working with ROGA and its member operators, we’re removing barriers to support and making it easier for people to access the tools they need — freely, anonymously, and on their own terms.”
ROGA Members and Responsible Gaming
ROGA counts eight members, including major iGaming and online sports betting operators such as FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics. These members are required to offer responsible gaming tools like self-imposed deposit limits, cool-off periods, and time management settings. However, unregulated gaming is a different story, with countless offshore, illegal casinos continuing to market to US players, and controversial “sweeps” casinos flooding the internet. BetBlocker can help in these situations by restricting access to these sites.
Self-Exclusion: The Most Effective Tool
Responsible gaming advocates, such as ROGA, say that self-exclusion is the most effective rehabilitation for problem gamblers. ROGA will prominently promote and feature BetBlocker’s free blocking software on its website and platform. The association will also work with its members to explore ways they can make BetBlocker available to their customers. In 2022, DraftKings implemented BetBlocker in its online app, demonstrating the effectiveness of this tool.
Conclusion
The partnership between ROGA and BetBlocker is a significant step towards promoting responsible online gaming and supporting individuals in managing their relationship with gambling. By providing access to BetBlocker, ROGA is equipping individuals with a practical tool to support their decisions and well-being. As the online gaming industry continues to grow, it is essential to prioritize responsible gaming and provide resources like BetBlocker to those who need them.
