Michigan has launched a new effort to curb gambling-related harm by offering residents free access to blocking software. The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) announced a partnership with Gamban that allows individuals statewide to use the service at no cost, expanding its responsible gaming measures.
Residents can claim a Gamban license lasting from one to five years without charge. The software is designed to restrict or fully block access to online gambling platforms, helping users manage their exposure.
Free Access To Blocking Software
Gamban works across Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS devices. Once installed, it blocks gambling websites and apps and is built to resist removal, limiting the ability to bypass restrictions.
“Michigan is committed to ensuring that the expansion of legal gaming comes with the strongest possible safeguards for our residents,”MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said. “Our partnership with Gamban gives anyone who wants help a free, proven tool to block access to online gambling — instantly and across all their devices.”
The offer is open to all residents, including those not enrolled in self-exclusion programs. Officials encourage individuals already listed in the Responsible Gaming Database or Disassociated Persons List to use the software as added protection.
Addressing Rising Online Gambling Activity
The initiative follows continued growth in digital betting and casino gaming. Michigan legalized both early, contributing to increased participation. National data shows about 2% of Americans, roughly six million people, meet the criteria for gambling addiction, a trend reflected in the state.
Gamban blocks a broad range of gambling activity, including casino games, sports betting, poker, and crypto or NFT-based wagering. It also targets unregulated and offshore sites while leaving non-gambling platforms unaffected.
Matt Zarb-Cousin, Director of External Affairs at Gamban, said, “We are delighted to partner with the Michigan Gaming Control Board to make Gamban free for people where cost might otherwise be a barrier. When someone takes the first step toward quitting gambling, they will be made aware of all the services available in the state via the Gamban app, while it works to block gambling sites and apps in the background. This approach has improved overall rates of abstinence and recovery in other jurisdictions.”
Part Of A Broader Responsible Gaming Strategy
Residents can obtain the free license through the MGCB website by registering for the offer, creating an account, and installing the software on their devices. The license covers multiple devices within a household, and technical support is available to assist with setup.
State officials describe the partnership as one component of a wider effort to provide accessible support tools. Existing programs include self-exclusion options for online gambling and restrictions tied to Detroit’s commercial casinos, along with public awareness initiatives such as the “Don’t Regret the Bet” campaign.
“The Michigan Gaming Control Board works hard to deliver meaningful, accessible responsible gaming support to residents across the state,” said Sandra Johnson, MGCB Responsible Gaming Section Manager. “Gamban helps people take back control, and this partnership ensures that anyone in Michigan who wants that help can get it — free of charge.”
Source:
“Michigan Gaming Control Board partners with Gamban to offer free gambling blocking licenses to Michigan residents”, michigan.gov, April 23, 2026
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