BetBlocker, the free gambling ad blocking tool, has been listed as a charitable entity within the United Kingdom.
Stopping ads from multiple sources
By using the BetBlocker app, users have the ability to control how they access over 6,700 operator sites. They can also choose how long they want exclusions to last for. This can’t be lifted until the period has ended, and devices will be restricted as soon as BetBlocker is activated. In addition to regulated operators, users can also restrict black market gambling services that would normally ignore players’ responsible gambling requests.
This project has been funded and developed by the Alternative Dispute Mediation service, ThePOGG.com Ltd. The aim is to help players who’ve used the service and shown signs of a possible gambling addiction.
Duncan Garvie, Manager of ThePOGG.com, said:
“We started BetBlocker to assist vulnerable players, who were complaining about gambling operators to us. The project has been far more popular than we ever expected, and has expanded well beyond the original base it was intended to help. It has become evident that BetBlocker’s service is one that many people can benefit from.
“With a fast-growing user base, sustaining this project is a challenge that can’t be met by ThePOGG.com alone. With over 40,000 downloads across the various platforms, plus a user base of several thousand users on the mobile apps alone, this is a project which needs to be recognised in its own right if its going to maximise the number of people it can help.”
Garvie also mentions that BetBlocker could have started charging a fee for its use. However, he felt that was unfair when such vulnerable individuals are likely to have little money.
How to donate
As part of its attempts to reach more people in need, BetBlocker is looking for partners with a strong commitment to responsible gambling. While player donations are accepted (this can be done by emailing [email protected]), ThePOGG.com’s manager said that the best way to contribute is via Amazon Smile. This program enables Amazon users to send small contributions when purchasing something, at no additional cost to themselves. This can be done here.
