You delete DraftKings after a bad night. The next day there's a game on, and the app is back on your phone before you've really decided anything. It takes seconds to download it again, so deleting it won't hold.
What you want is a wall, so that when an urge hits, it runs into that wall instead of a bet slip. Below is how to block DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM and every other sportsbook, in layers, so one weak moment can't undo everything.
Layer 1: Put a gambling blocker on every device
A blocker stops gambling apps and websites from working, even if you reinstall them. Two good options:
- BetBlocker: free, run by a registered charity, and works on iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac and Chrome. You choose how long the block lasts.
- Gamban: a paid subscription with a free trial, covering iPhone, Android, Windows and Mac.
Start with your phone, then cover every other device you use. If money's tight, BetBlocker costs nothing and you can set it up tonight.
Layer 2: Lock your phone's settings
iPhone: go to Settings, then Screen Time, then Content & Privacy Restrictions. Under App Installations & Purchases, set Installing Apps to Don't Allow. That way you can't reinstall a sportsbook on impulse. Under App Store, Media, Web & Games, then Web Content, choose Limit Adult Websites and add each sportsbook's website to Never Allow. Then have someone you trust set the Screen Time passcode, so turning it off isn't up to you.
Android: open the Play Store, tap your profile, then Settings, Family and Parental controls, and limit downloads to lower age ratings. Most sportsbook apps are rated for adults only. Have someone you trust set the PIN. Pair it with a blocker too, because Android's built-in settings don't block gambling websites.
Menu names change with updates. If yours looks different, search your settings for "Screen Time" or "Parental controls."
Layer 3: Close the sportsbook accounts
- Close or self-exclude from every sportsbook account. You'll usually find it under account settings or responsible gaming.
- Sign up for your state's self-exclusion program. It bans you from every licensed sportsbook there.
- Unsubscribe from every sportsbook email, and reply STOP to their texts.
- Unfollow betting accounts and "lock of the day" pages on social media.
Layer 4: Block the money
- Remove saved cards, bank accounts, PayPal and Venmo from every betting site.
- Ask your bank and card issuers about a gambling transaction block.
When you want to undo it
At some point you'll want to pull the blocker off "just for tonight." That's normal. That night is the reason you set all of this up. Wait it out. Call or text someone first, or call 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738).
FAQ
Can I block DraftKings and FanDuel on my phone?
Yes. Install a gambling blocker, then lock your phone's settings so you can't reinstall the apps on impulse. Using both together works better than either one alone.
Is there a free gambling blocker?
Yes. BetBlocker is free and run by a registered charity. Gamban is a paid option with a free trial.
Can I still bet after blocking the apps?
Possibly, on another device or through a website a blocker misses. That's why it helps to also self-exclude and block payments.
Get your recovery plan
Blocking the apps is step one. Get an honest read on what's driving your betting and what to do this week.
Start my planSources: BetBlocker on the App Store; blocker comparisons from Cashout and NoGambling. Unbettable isn't affiliated with any blocking app.
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