The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has formed a new alliance with Gamban to offer complimentary access to gambling-blocking software to all residents of Michigan.
This program enables individuals to acquire licenses for a duration of one to five years, free of charge, representing a significant advance in the state’s initiatives for responsible gaming.
Gamban is crafted to prevent access to gambling websites and applications on key platforms, such as Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS. After installation, the software proves challenging to uninstall, providing a robust obstacle for users aiming to curtail or cease online gambling activities.
This initiative arises amidst escalating concerns regarding problem gambling. The National Council on Problem Gambling states that approximately 2% of Americans, equating to around six million individuals, qualify as gambling addicts. With Michigan being an early adopter of legalized online sports betting and casino gaming, the state has experienced rapid expansion in digital gambling, heightening the emphasis on consumer protection.
“Michigan is dedicated to ensuring that the growth of legal gaming is accompanied by the strongest protections for our residents,” remarked MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams. “Our collaboration with Gamban provides a free, proven method for anyone desiring assistance to immediately block online gambling access across all devices.”
Residents can easily obtain the complimentary licenses via the MGCB website without enrolling in a self-exclusion program. However, those already listed in the state’s Responsible Gaming Database or Disassociated Persons List are encouraged to take advantage of this service as an additional safeguard.
Matt Zarb-Cousin, Gamban’s Director of External Affairs, noted that this initiative eliminates financial barriers for individuals in need of support.
“When an individual takes the initial step toward quitting gambling, the Gamban app will inform them of all available services in the state while working seamlessly to block gambling platforms in the background,” he noted. “This strategy has shown to enhance overall recovery and abstinence rates in other regions.”
Gamban restricts all forms of online gambling content, encompassing sports betting, casino games, poker, cryptocurrency gambling, and unregulated sites, while keeping non-gambling websites and investment platforms unaffected.
“The Michigan Gaming Control Board tirelessly aims to deliver substantial, accessible, and responsible gaming support to residents statewide,” said Sandra Johnson, MGCB Responsible Gaming Section Manager. “Gamban empowers individuals to regain control, and this collaboration guarantees that any Michigan resident seeking help can access it—at no cost.”
She further emphasized that the collaboration enhances existing responsible gaming initiatives, including self-exclusion programs and public awareness campaigns like “Don’t Regret the Bet.”
“The inclusion of Gamban creates a comprehensive approach to risk mitigation, merging voluntary self-exclusion with device-level blocking technology for support across all stages of an individual’s journey.”
Michigan homeowners can effortlessly secure a free Gamban license by navigating to the regulatory website, selecting the free license option, and creating a Gamban account. Following registration, users can download and install the software on an unlimited number of personal devices within their households. Additionally, Gamban offers live technical assistance for installation if required.