Michigan Expands Free Gambling Blocking Tool Access for Gamban Licenses

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has expanded its free Gamban program by purchasing 100 additional licenses, amid strong early demand from residents.

Over 80 Licenses Claimed in 14 Days

The regulator said more than 80 of the initial 100 licenses that were made available were claimed within just two weeks of launch, a clear sign of people’s hunger for practical tools to limit gambling access in their daily lives.

Gamban is a widely spread software used to block gambling by preventing access to gambling websites and applications across major operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. 

The tool is designed to be difficult to remove once installed, creating a consistent barrier between users and online gambling content.

Each license covers unlimited devices within a household, and users also receive access to live technical support to assist with installation and setup. The program is available at no cost to Michigan residents and does not require participation in a formal self-exclusion scheme.

“Strongest Possible Safeguards”

The MGCB first introduced the initiative last month as part of its broader responsible gaming strategy, with the goal of removing financial and technical barriers for people looking to gain more control over their gambling habits.

Executive Director Henry Williams said the response to the program had exceeded expectations, adding that the early uptake demonstrated a real need within communities across the state. 

“We acted quickly to secure an additional 100 licenses so that no resident seeking this kind of support is turned away. Michigan is committed to ensuring that the expansion of legal gaming comes with the strongest possible safeguards for the people we serve.” 

The regulator also referenced national data from the National Council on Problem Gambling, which estimates that around 2% of Americans meet criteria associated with gambling addiction. Officials said that the statistic reinforces the importance of making protective tools widely available.

Gamban also blocks access to offshore and unregulated platforms, including casino games, sports betting, poker, social casino apps, and newer digital wagering formats.