Complete guide to Gamban gambling blocking software — how it works, what it blocks, and how it differs from GamStop.
Gamban is device-level gambling blocking software designed to prevent access to online gambling websites and apps. Unlike GamStop, which is a voluntary self-exclusion register that only applies to UK Gambling Commission-licensed operators, Gamban works at the device level and blocks thousands of gambling sites — including many offshore operators not covered by GamStop.
Gamban was developed as a supplementary tool for people who want comprehensive gambling blocking beyond what GamStop provides. It costs approximately £24.99 per year per device and can be installed across phones, tablets, and computers simultaneously.
Gamban uses a combination of DNS filtering and URL blocking to prevent your device from accessing gambling websites. When installed, it runs in the background and automatically blocks access to its database of known gambling sites. The software is designed to be difficult to remove during your subscription period — this is intentional, as it helps maintain your self-exclusion commitment even during moments of temptation.
Gamban's blocklist is continuously updated to include new gambling sites as they launch. However, because new offshore sites appear regularly, there may be a short period before a newly launched site is added to the database.
GamStop is a free, UK-operated national self-exclusion register. It blocks your account at all UKGC-licensed online gambling operators. It does not affect offshore sites licensed in Curaçao, Malta, Gibraltar, or other jurisdictions. GamStop works at the account level — operators check the register and close or restrict your account.
Gamban is paid software (£24.99/year) that blocks gambling websites at the device level. It covers UKGC-licensed sites and many offshore operators. It works regardless of the gambling site's licence or jurisdiction. Gamban blocks access to sites, rather than closing accounts.
Many responsible gambling organisations recommend using both together for maximum coverage.
Gamban blocks access to a wide range of gambling sites including online casinos, sports betting platforms, poker rooms, bingo sites, lottery sites, and spread betting platforms. Its database covers thousands of sites across multiple jurisdictions.
However, Gamban cannot block every gambling site in existence. New offshore sites launch frequently, and there may be a delay before they are added to the blocklist. Some sites using unusual domain structures or newly registered domains may temporarily evade detection.
Gamban is recommended for anyone who wants comprehensive gambling blocking that goes beyond GamStop's coverage. It is particularly useful if you are concerned about accessing offshore gambling sites during a self-exclusion period, or if you want device-level blocking that works regardless of which gambling site you attempt to visit.
If you are struggling with gambling, we encourage you to contact the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 (free, 24/7) for personalised support and guidance.