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Some of the biggest names in U.S. sports betting just took a collective step toward helping players take better control of their gambling. The Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) has announced a new partnership with BetBlocker, a free tool designed to block access to thousands of gambling websites and apps.
For players looking to set boundaries or take a break, this is a pretty big deal. The move makes it easier than ever for U.S. players to get access to blocking software without having to dig through obscure websites or pay for pricey subscriptions.
Who’s Involved?
ROGA isn’t just any industry group—it’s made up of eight major sportsbooks that represent roughly 90% of the legal sports betting market in the United States. That lineup includes:
- bet365
- BetMGM
- DraftKings
- Bally Bet
- ESPN Bet
- Fanatics Sportsbook
- FanDuel
- Hard Rock
When all of these operators agree on something, it sends a strong signal that they’re serious about raising responsible gaming standards. This partnership is the latest in a series of moves by ROGA since launching in March 2024, including education programs for college students and new guidelines for VIP players.
How BetBlocker Works
BetBlocker isn’t complicated to use. Setup takes about two minutes, and there’s no need to register or share personal information. Once installed, the software automatically blocks access to more than 118,000 gambling sites and 1,500 gambling-related apps.
The tool can be customized in a few ways:
- Time-based restrictions – Choose how long the block stays active.
- Parental controls – Prevent underage users from accessing gambling or other adult content.
- Custom schedules – Decide which days or times gambling access is restricted.
- Extra blocking options – Add specific sites manually or suggest new ones for the system to block.
As part of the ROGA partnership, BetBlocker will also introduce a new scheduling feature so players can plan ahead and block gambling access on certain dates—think weekends, big sports events, or personal high-risk times.
Why This Partnership Matters
In the past, responsible gambling tools have often felt like an afterthought—hidden in small print or buried deep in account settings. This collaboration flips that script. Now, some of the most visited sports betting platforms in the country will make BetBlocker more visible, easier to find, and completely free to use.
Dr. Jennifer Shatley, ROGA’s executive director, summed it up perfectly: “Making resources like BetBlocker more visible and accessible is one way we put our mission into action.” The mission she’s talking about is simple—give people the practical tools they need to manage their gambling in a healthy way.
A Step Toward Better Player Protection
BetBlocker isn’t meant to replace other responsible gambling measures like self-exclusion programs or deposit limits. Instead, it works alongside those tools to give players another layer of control.
Duncan Garvie, BetBlocker’s founder, called the partnership a “significant step forward” and emphasized that reaching players directly through sportsbook platforms is the fastest way to connect with those who could benefit.
With more than 150,000 active users worldwide—including over 10,000 in the U.S. alone—BetBlocker already has a solid track record. Now that it has the backing of nearly the entire regulated sports betting market in the country, its reach is only going to grow.
Keeping Control in the Player’s Hands
This move doesn’t magically solve problem gambling, but it’s a clear sign the industry is starting to take player protection more seriously. Making a free, anonymous blocking tool available through the sportsbooks where people are actually placing bets is a practical, player-friendly step.
For anyone who wants to take a break, limit temptation, or set some boundaries, this is about as easy as it gets—two minutes, no personal info, and you’re good to go.
