ROGA, BetBlocker Partner to Expand Free Gambling Block Tool

The 2024-launched body that reunites eight of the largest online gaming operators in the country, the Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA), has inked an important partnership with Delaware-registered charity BetBlocker. The new agreement will give more Americans access to free tools to help them stay in control of their gambling.

Giving Individuals Practical Tools

ROGA, which represents 90% of the legal U.S. sports betting market by handle, called the agreement a crucial solution to raise the bar for responsible gaming nationwide. 

BetBlocker’s software enables users to easily block themselves from more than 118,000 gambling websites and 1,500 apps, covering both regulated and unregulated operators, in just a few minutes.

“ROGA was established to raise the standard for responsible online gaming through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to evidence-based practices,” said ROGA executive director Dr. Jennifer Shatley. 

“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.”, Shatley added. 

As part of the agreement, the association that launched the Request for Proposal initiative in January and the Know Your Play campaign to educate college students on responsible gambling the following month, will feature BetBlocker prominently on its website. 

The deal will also require it to promote BetBlocker using all of its communication channels, while engaging with all member operators and making sure they properly integrate the service into their customer support offerings.

BetBlocker founder Duncan Garvie believes the partnership will help reach tens of thousands of people looking to set their own limits by accessing the tools they need in a free and anonymous manner, and, probably most importantly, “on their own terms.”

BetBlocker can be used on a variety of smart devices and is compatible with multiple operating systems. Plus, it is offered in more languages than any similar program. Users can set blocks for any length of time they choose, and the service will soon roll out a scheduling feature that allows them to plan restrictions for the moments they know will be most challenging.

Self-Exclusion Feature in the Making

The collaboration aligns closely with ROGA’s ongoing work to give players a variety of ways to take a break when they need one. 

The association is also developing a data clearinghouse that will make self-exclusion possible across all of its member companies. Following its official launch, BetBlocker will complement that system by making sure players are protected even outside regulated platforms.

Together, the organizations aim to make it as easy as possible for people to get the help they need, without cost, without stigma, and on their own terms.