How to block gambling sites on your devices: iPhone, Android, Windows and Mac
SaveThe quickest way to block gambling sites on all your devices is to install a gambling blocker such as BetBlocker (free) or Gamban (paid) on every phone, tablet and computer you use. Then add the controls built into iPhone, Android, Windows and Mac, and switch on your bank's gambling block. This guide from I Need Help shows each step and compares the tools, so you can block gambling sites in one evening.
Block gambling sites in three layers
| Layer | What it stops | Time to set up |
|---|---|---|
| Gambling blocker on each device | Gambling websites and apps, including sites not licensed in Great Britain | 10 minutes per device |
| Gamstop Online | Your accounts with every online gambling company licensed in Great Britain | A few minutes; live within 24 hours |
| Bank gambling block | Card payments to gambling companies, online and in shops | A few minutes in your banking app |
Gambling blockers compared
| Tool | Devices | Price | Can you remove it early? |
|---|---|---|---|
| BetBlocker | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, Fire OS | Free | No. You set a restriction from 1 day to 5 years, and it cannot be lifted before the end |
| Gamban | Phones, tablets and computers on all major platforms, one licence for all devices | £4.99 a month or £29.99 a year in England and Scotland; free in Wales; 7-day free trial | Protection runs while your subscription is active |
| GamBlock | Windows, Android and Apple devices | Paid, single or multi-device licences | GamBlock says its software cannot be removed |
| Apple Screen Time | iPhone, iPad, Mac | Free, built in | Yes, with the passcode – give it to someone you trust |
| Google Family Link | Android, Chrome | Free, built in | Yes, by the person who manages the account |
BetBlocker says it blocks more than 1.3 million gambling websites. A BetBlocker restriction of 2 months or longer carries on until you switch it off, and then a one-week cooling-off period applies.
How to block gambling sites on iPhone and iPad
- Open Settings and tap Screen Time.
- Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions and turn it on.
- Open the web content setting and choose Limit Adult Websites.
- Under Never Allow, add the gambling sites you used.
- Set the app age limit below the rating gambling apps carry, so they cannot be downloaded.
- Tap Lock Screen Time Settings and let someone you trust choose the passcode.
Screen Time only blocks the sites you list and the adult category. Install BetBlocker or Gamban from the App Store as well, so new gambling sites are blocked automatically.
How to block gambling sites on Android
- Install BetBlocker or Gamban from Google Play and follow the setup, allowing the permissions it asks for.
- In the Play Store, open Settings, then Family, then Parental controls. Set a PIN and limit apps to a rating below gambling apps.
- For a stronger lock, ask someone you trust to manage your phone through Google Family Link, which can block websites in Chrome.
- Delete any gambling apps already on the phone.
How to block gambling sites on Windows
- Install BetBlocker, Gamban or GamBlock and complete the setup.
- Remove saved gambling logins and cards from your browsers.
- If someone helps you, they can add you to Microsoft Family Safety and block gambling sites in Microsoft Edge.
How to block gambling sites on a Mac
- Open System Settings, then Screen Time, then Content & Privacy, and turn it on.
- Choose Limit Adult Websites and add gambling sites to the restricted list.
- Turn on Lock Screen Time Settings with a passcode someone else keeps.
- Install BetBlocker or Gamban for full coverage.
How to block gambling across your home Wi-Fi
Most UK broadband providers offer a free family filter that blocks categories of websites for every device on your home connection. Switch it on in your provider's account settings and check that gambling is one of the blocked categories. It does not work on mobile data, so keep a blocker on your phone as well.
How to block gambling payments at your bank
A gambling block stops your debit card paying gambling companies, whether online or in a betting shop. Most UK banks let you switch it on in their app, often under card settings. If you cannot find it, call your bank and ask for a gambling block. Ask how long it takes to switch off – a delay protects you on a bad day.
How to stop gambling adverts
- Google: in My Ad Center, choose to see fewer gambling ads.
- Social media: in your ad preferences, choose to see fewer ads about gambling.
- Gambling companies: once you register with Gamstop Online, licensed companies should stop marketing to you.
Block gambling for someone you care about
You cannot register someone else with Gamstop, but you can help them set up a blocker and keep the Screen Time or Family Link passcode for them. Gamstop also suggests registering yourself so that no one can use your details to gamble online.
Who to contact
| Service | What for | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| National Gambling Helpline | Confidential advice in England and Scotland | 0808 8020 133, free, 24/7 |
| NHS Wales Gambling Helpline | Advice, support and treatment in Wales | 0808 2819 265, free, 24/7 |
| GAMSTOP | Online self-exclusion | 0800 138 6518, 10am–8pm, 7 days |
| GambleAware | Information and blocking tools | Online |
This article is general information rather than advice for your own circumstances. I Need Help is an information site and we do not sell any goods or services. Gambling is for adults only (18+), and free, confidential support is available from the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.
#Website blocking #Self-exclusion #GAMSTOP #Financial protection
Download PDF: Device blocking checklist PDF, 29 KB
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
Can I block gambling sites without paying?
Yes. BetBlocker is free on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS, Apple's Screen Time is built into iPhone, iPad and Mac, and most UK banks offer a free gambling block on your card.
How do I block all gambling sites at once?
Combine three layers: register with Gamstop Online for licensed sites, install blocking software such as BetBlocker or Gamban on every device to catch the rest, and switch on your bank's gambling block to stop payments.
Can I remove a gambling blocker early?
It depends on the tool. A BetBlocker restriction cannot be lifted before the period you chose ends, GamBlock says its software cannot be removed, and Screen Time can be changed by anyone with the passcode – so give the passcode to someone you trust.