BetBlocker software, which first appeared in Europe, allows users to create restrictions on their gaming activities. It’s available free of charge for bettors who use regulated or unregulated sites. The company has now collaborated with DraftKings to improve awareness and access to the software, according to Sports Handle.
“BetBlocker’s contributions to safer play are commendable and DraftKings is pleased to team up with this enterprising and disruptive not-for-profit that is advancing responsible gaming in a comprehensive and consumer-friendly way,” Chrissy Thurmond, DraftKings senior director of responsible gaming, said in a press release. “We share BetBlocker’s vision that technology and innovation are critical to promoting safer play, and we extend a warm welcome to BetBlocker as they build their footprint in North America, following widespread success across the pond.”
Brianne Doura-Schawohl, who previously worked for EPIC Risk Management and the National Council on Problem Gambling, calls the partnership a good thing for consumers.
“In the absence of easily accessible, streamlined self-exclusion programs that are unified throughout the nation, this will afford vulnerable patrons a means of protecting themselves across state borders at no cost,” said Doura-Schawohl, who has her own consulting firm, RG/PG. “Individuals struggling with a gambling addiction may also have financial burdens—removing barriers to assistance is exactly the initiative we need to be seeing more of across the nation.”
The DraftKings-BetBlocker creation resembles last year’s partnership between Gamban software and FanDuel, which blocks access to sites to those who sign up for self-exclusion or have a gambling problem.
BetBlocker users download the software anonymously, and it does not store personal data. Players choose from a range of restrictions from 1-5 days, 1-3 weeks, 1-6 months, 1-5 years, or, maybe just on weekends.
“We’ve been impressed with DraftKings’ leadership in responsible gaming, and we are grateful for their collaboration and financial support as we look to expand awareness of safer play technology,” said Pedro Romero, BetBlocker chief of safer gambling partnerships.
“We encourage other operators to follow DraftKings’ example of going above and beyond what is required region by region, to ensure all players have the knowledge and tools to bet responsibly,” said Romero.
