One common tool used to reduce the chances that a problem gambler will relapse is self-exclusion. Self-exclusion for traditional forms of gambling usually involves signing a deed of agreement with an operator allowing them to prevent you from entering a venue.

On the internet however users can be bombarded with a range of gambling advertising and it would seem to be impossible to prevent a gambler from accessing one of the multitude of internet gambling sites around the world.

There is a solution to this apparent dilemma. Melbourne software developer, David Warr has developed GamBlock, a software program that blocks access to internet gambling sites.

He answered some questions for Gambling Matters.

While working on a computer program, I took a break to watch a television program about the methods used by the gambling industry to entice people to gamble. It became apparent during the program that home gambling was becoming a major community problem and there appeared to be no way of stopping its insidious invasion into peoples’ homes and lives. I always enjoy a challenge and it struck me that a solution to the problem was contained in a variation of the code I had been working on at the time.

First, however, I had to do my groundwork. I interviewed problem gamblers and did extensive research to familiarise myself with the issues involved and the ways in which purveyors of gambling products seek to infiltrate peoples’ personal computers. After months of research, thinking and programming, GamBlock was born.

Shortly after releasing GamBlock, I was interviewed by the BBC as part of program on gambling. As a result of the interview, I was inundated with enquiries and feedback resulting in numerous enhancements to the program.

GamBlock is used by those who wish to "self exclude" themselves and their loved ones from the dangers of unrestrained gambling. Between 2% and 4% of all current non-Internet Gamblers have significant problems with their gambling behaviour. Addictive Gambling brings them financial ruin, broken relationships and destroyed careers. Exposure to Internet Gambling will multiply these problems exponentially over the next few years.

Problem gamblers are not the only people who use GamBlock. Many people install GamBlock so as to protect family members or friends using their personal computers to access gambling websites. Corporations and organisations also install GamBlock to protect and prevent their staff from accessing gambling websites from computers located in the work environment.

As the name suggests GamBlock detects and blocks gambling sites on the internet whilst leaving other sites alone. GamBlock also prevents loading gambling software.

We regularly receive emails of thanks from users of Gamblock or members of their family. In some cases people have commented that their lives have got back on track by relieving the financial burden that gambling has caused them. For corporations, it assists in providing a secure and safe work environment.

As peer-to-peer gambling becomes ever more popular, GamBlock™ provides protection.