Gamblock Unveiled: Comprehensive Review and Easy Installation Instructions
Whether you want to curb your gambling habit or protect your kids from underage betting, GamBlock can help. This software restricts access to online casinos and sports betting sites on desktop and mobile devices. However, with other free platforms available, is paying for GamBlock worth it?
Read our comprehensive GamBlock review to learn about its features, what users and experts think of this online blocking system, pros and cons, the installation process, and price plans to decide if it’s right for you.
GamBlock - What Is It and How Does it Work?
GamBlock is customer-funded software that scans each webpage you visit, analysing whether you can place bets or engage in casino games. If it sniffs out any gambling elements, it promptly redirects you to protect you from engaging in online betting.
Beyond just blocking websites, GamBlock also identifies and blocks gambling applications and downloadable software. Its advanced algorithms can even thwart attempts to bypass the block using VPNs - ideal if you or a loved one is recovering from gambling addiction.
Pros:
- Robust blocking
- Discreet operation
- Supports multiple platforms
Cons:
- No free trial
- UI needs improvement
- Can block non-gambling sites
- Not government-funded
- Not free
GamBlock Company Info
| Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | GamBlock Pty Ltd. |
| Address | PO Box 230, Mont Albert, Victoria, 3127, Australia |
| Website | www.GamBlock.com |
| Employees | 25 |
| Revenue | £5 million |
| Phone Number | +61 398985567 |
GamBlock User Reviews
Nick Ratchford - Trustpilot (21/09/2023)
"Very happy as it has restricted the gambling on my device however the only issue I have is that it also restricts multiple websites and apps that do not involve gambling which is frustrating as you have to email GamBlock to tell them which apps and websites are coming up restricted, I would of give it 5 star if this issue wasn’t happening.” 5/5 ⭐
Brian Peacock - Trustpilot (29/06/2022)
“My wife (who to be fair is not the most tech savy person) downloaded and installed the software today.
“The customer services were on hand right throughout the process and answered all her questions almost instantly.
“It's not the first time she has used GamBlock and I can't stress enough how wonderful this software is. I can relax once this is on her equipment because I know 100% it can't be removed/overwritten - this really is the ONLY thing in many, many years that definitely works.
“My sincere thanks for the support.” 5/5 ⭐
Our Assessment of GamBlock
We tested GamBlock's functionality by attempting to visit gambling sites through various channels, including VPNs, proxies, and DNS changes. Each time, the software efficiently redirected us to a safe homepage.
Its heuristic algorithms (a formula that quickly finds good-enough solutions through shortcuts, prioritising speed over perfection) adapt continually to block new gambling sites as they emerge.
To ensure we got a complete picture of the platform, we used Android, Windows, and Apple devices to test the software. It pleased us to find that GamBlock adapted well, tailoring its blocking methods to each platform.
On Android devices (we used a Samsung Galaxy S23), it even anticipates and prevents access to unreleased betting platforms - something we couldn't test but sounds promising.H A word of caution for Windows users: GamBlock is so robust that even a factory reset failed to disable its features.
What impressed our review team the most was that it runs silently in the background without annoying pop-ups or alerts. It even offers a configuration to block phone calls and texts to and from gambling vendors - showing that it goes above and beyond to protect you.
Continuous Development
This isn’t a set-and-forget type of software. GamBlock is constantly updated with enhanced security and diagnostic features, ensuring you're always a step ahead of the gambling sites.
Customised Solutions
Why settle for a one-size-fits-all solution when you can customise your experience? GamBlock enables you to block additional apps or activities that you personally find risky, making it a personalised shield against problem gambling.
GamBlock Price Plans
Want to protect more than one device? Discounts are available for multiple devices, and you have the flexibility of choosing between single and multiple licenses.
GamBlock Pricing Information
| Product Name | Number of Devices | Months Protection | Unit Price (USD/GBP) | Discount Percentage | Sub Total | Product Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung - GamBlock® for Help Organisations | 1 | 2 | $35.95 (£29.48) | 0.00 | $35.95 (£29.48) | Two Month's GamBlock® for Help Organisations Protection |
| Non-Samsung Android - GamBlock® Divergence | 0 | 3 | $49.95 (£40.96) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | Three Month's GamBlock® Divergence Protection |
| Windows Personal Titanium | 0 | 12 | $187.95 (£154.12) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | One Year's Windows Personal Titanium Protection |
| Windows Personal Platinum | 0 | 12 | $140.95 (£115.58) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | One Year's Windows Personal Platinum Protection |
| Windows Personal Gold | 0 | 12 | $109.95 (£90.16) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | One Year's Windows Personal Gold Protection |
| Windows Small Business Titanium | 0 | 12 | $205.95 (£168.88) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | One Year's Windows Small Business Titanium Protection |
| Windows Small Business Platinum | 0 | 12 | $150.95 (£123.78) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | One Year's Windows Small Business Platinum Protection |
| Windows Small Business Gold | 0 | 12 | $116.95 (£95.90) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | One Year's Windows Small Business Gold Protection |
| Windows Corporate | 0 | 12 | $39.95 (£32.76) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | One Year's Windows Corporate Platinum Protection |
| New iPhone 13 – Ireland Only | 0 | 24 | $1719.95 (£1410.36) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | Éire Only, iPhone 13, 256G, Black, Including VAT, Two Year's Protection |
| New iPhone 12 – Ireland Only | 0 | 24 | $1151.95 (£944.60) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | Éire Only, iPhone 12, 128G, Black or Red, Including VAT, Two Year's Protection |
| Your Apple Device - Variable Blocking - Via Mac | 0 | 2 | $45.95 (£37.68) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | Two Month's Your Apple Device Protection |
| Ultimate Help Desk | 0 | 1 | $19.95 (£16.36) | 0.00 | $0 (£0) | One Hour's GamBlock® Ultimate Help Desk Support |
Institutional Applications
If you're part of an organisation looking to safeguard your network, GamBlock offers a robust solution. It assures businesses, government departments, and libraries that their networks are gambling-free zones.
Is There A GamBlock Free Trial?
While a monthly subscription costs £10, there's no free trial for GamBlock. However, after conducting a thorough review of the software, the quality of the blocking system - and its potential to save you money in the long run - more than justifies the price.
Eager to tackle your gambling habits or assist a loved one? Installing GamBlock is a crucial step. It's not just a click-and-install process, so let's break it down step-by-step.
Before You Begin
- Transaction ID: Upon completing your purchase, you'll receive a transaction ID. Keep this handy; you'll need it later.
- Device Compatibility: Make sure you select the right version for your device.
Installation Steps
- Step 1: Start by visiting the official GamBlock website. Seek out the 'Sign Up' button, usually positioned at the top-right corner.
- Step 2: You’ll be directed to choose a subscription plan. With various options available, pick one that fits your needs and wallet.
- Step 3: Add your chosen plan to the cart. Complete the transaction by hitting ‘Buy Now’.
- Step 4: You'll land on the official download page. Click to download the software installer to your device.
- Step 5: Locate the downloaded installer in your 'Downloads' folder. Double-click it and then select ‘Extract’.
- Step 6: A series of on-screen instructions will guide you. Wait for the extraction to finish and grant any permissions when prompted.
- Step 7: You’ll encounter a screen requesting you to set a password for additional GamBlock features. Note that this password is not linked to the software’s primary blocking functionality.
- Step 8: Your device may reboot. If it does, wait for it to restart and open the GamBlock Features window.
- Step 9: Here, register your GamBlock software by entering the previously received Transaction ID.
Need Help?
Encountering snags? Especially for smartphone users, the installation process can be cumbersome. Fortunately, GamBlock offers remote support. Don't hesitate to reach out to their team; they're more than willing to assist you.
By following these comprehensive steps, you’ll have GamBlock up and running, setting the stage for a safer digital environment.
How to Remove GamBlock - Is It Possible?
GamBlock takes commitment seriously. Once you've installed it, uninstalling is not possible until your licence period comes to an end.
User Financing: A Double-Edged Sword?
Funded entirely by users, GamBlock touts a zero-conflict agenda. During our testing, we found no evidence to suggest otherwise. Its core focus is clearly on delivering a protective environment free from commercial biases. However, user funding also raises questions about the long-term sustainability and updates of the platform. Therefore, if you’re worried about its longevity, try free gambling software alternatives like GamCare’s Gamban, as it’s government-funded.
That said, even GamCare states that GamBlock is better software on the whole.
Alternatives to GamBlock: A Side-By-Side Comparison
While GamBlock leads the charge in the realm of gambling-blocking software, it's not the only game in town. So, how do its contenders measure up? Let’s dissect:
Betfilter
On a tight budget? Betfilter might catch your eye with its £5 monthly price tag. It's a straightforward tool that mainly blocks websites, but it doesn’t block apps and VPNs, unlike GamBlock.
GamBan
GamBan also enters the ring with app and software blocking features, yet its algorithm isn’t foolproof. Users often find workarounds to bypass its security measures, putting its effectiveness under scrutiny.
BetBlocker
BetBlocker aims for a balanced performance, excelling in self-exclusion and installation ease. However, its protective features and mobile tool ratings hover around average, making it less sturdy compared to GamBlock.
NetNanny
NetNanny may lag in robust protection features, but it shines in user experience. However, its poor mobile tool rating and uninstall-proof score leave a lot to be desired. That said, it’s great for stopping children from gambling.
Table Comparison
| Self-Exclusion App | Easy Installation | User Experience Rating | Protection Rating | Uninstall-proof | Mobile Tool Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gamban | 3.5/5 | 5/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| BetBlocker | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Betfilter | N/A | 3/5 | 4/5 | N/A | 3/5 |
| GamBlock | 4.5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| NetNanny | 2/5 | 4.5/5 | 2/5 | 1/5 | 1/5 |
To sum it up, while GamBlock may come with a £10 monthly fee, it delivers a multi-faceted shield against all forms of gambling - from websites to apps and VPNs. If you're after an all-inclusive, fail-safe solution, GamBlock is the way to go.
How Effective Is Gambling Blocking Software
You might be leaning towards GamBlock, but what's the general efficacy of gambling-blocking software? A study by Winning Moves Ltd. for BeGambleAware sheds some light on this crucial question.
Restricting Access to Legal Sites
According to the study mentioned abive, no gambling-blocking software managed to block 100% of websites associated with UK Gambling Commission licences. However, many clocked 99% of such sites. Even the least effective package managed to block around 59%, including all of the largest online operators that account for the highest traffic.
Illegal and Offshore Gambling
The software also shows promise in blocking illegal and offshore gambling websites, with an effectiveness rate of 80-90%. Where it falls short is in blocking access to cryptocurrency gambling sites, but strides are being made to plug this gap.
The Deterrence Factor
Users report that the mere presence of the software acts as a deterrent against even attempting to gamble online. They fully expect any attempts to be thwarted by the software.
Impact on Harm Reduction
So, is blocking software effective in reducing gambling-related harm? The evidence suggests yes. The study identifies several cases where blocking software was critical in harm reduction.
Not a Standalone Solution
It's important to note that blocking software is generally not seen as a standalone solution for problem gambling - as you can still use devices that don’t have the gambling-blocking software installed or make wagers in person at betting shops and casinos.
It found that the software is most effective when part of a broader treatment plan - like ones offered by GamCare and Gamblers Anonymous - which provide professional support.
Getting the Most out of GamBlock
Along with downloading software like GamBlock, understanding the intricacies of gambling addiction and other methods to overcome it is crucial - not only for those who find themselves ensnared by its grasp but also for their loved ones. For this reason, we have created a range of problem gambling guides, such as the following:
- Complete Guide to Self-Exclusion in Gambling: Delve into the process of self-exclusion and how it can be an effective measure to curb problematic gambling habits.
- GAMSTOP Guide: Familiarise yourself with GAMSTOP, a centralised self-exclusion scheme that helps individuals restrict their online gambling activities.
- Gambling Addiction Denial: How to Help Yourself or a Loved One: Recognising the signs of denial and learning strategies to confront and address gambling addiction.
- How Does Gambling Affect Your Brain: Explore the neurological impacts of gambling and how it can rewire brain pathways to understand the issue and how to treat it better.
- The National Gambling Support Network: Full List of Support Services in the UK: A comprehensive list of services and organisations dedicated to assisting individuals affected by gambling addiction in the UK.
- Activities to Stop Gambling: Check out this guide on activities that can make curbing your habit easier.
Are There Casinos Not on GamBlock?
Wondering if any casinos have evaded GamBlock's watchful eye? The answer is no. Thanks to the software's sophisticated heuristic algorithms, it can adapt to emerging threats, making it nearly impossible for new or obscure gambling platforms to slip through the net.
Heuristic algorithms work by analysing patterns and behaviours in real time. So, even if a new gambling site launches after you've installed GamBlock, the software is likely to catch it before you even know it exists.
While other apps may fall short in this area, leaving users exposed until new sites are added manually, GamBlock is proactive, not reactive. This means you can browse with confidence, knowing that the software is always one step ahead in blocking gambling sites.
Final Verdict: Is GamBlock Worth It?
Our testing across multiple platforms proved that GamBlock actively blocks gambling sites, adapts its algorithms, and even preemptively shuts down emerging threats. For Windows users, take heed: its defences are so sturdy that not even a factory reset can dismantle them.
But what truly sets GamBlock apart is its ongoing evolution. Unlike other stagnant solutions, this software continuously updates its security features, making sure you're always one step ahead of temptation.
Moreover, it respects your autonomy, offering customised blocking options for other apps or activities you deem risky. It goes the extra mile by even blocking phone calls and texts to gambling vendors. That's dedication.
So, If you're serious about curbing your gambling habits or protecting someone you care about, investing in GamBlock is a solid bet. It might be priced at a premium, but its wealth of features and peace of mind are well worth the cost.