New partnership allows users of Michigan online casinos to obtain free gambling blocking licenses

State regulators have bolstered efforts to address responsible gambling and consumer protection as the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) partnered with Gamban to offer free gambling blocking licenses to state residents.

The landmark partnership between the MGCB and Gamban, considered a global leader in gambling blocking software, creates a way for Michiganders to limit or even eliminate access to online casinos in Michigan.

As noted in a press release, residents in the state can acquire a free license that ranges from one to five years, representing "a significant expansion" of regulators' responsible gaming framework. In addition, Michigan residents are afforded "a powerful, practical tool" to support their responsible gambling efforts by limiting or eliminating their access to online gambling.

Gamban provides a comprehensive blocking solution that restricts users' access to gambling websites and applications across all major devices and platforms. After it is installed, the software is designed to be highly resistant to removal, per the announcement, creating a "meaningful barrier" between residents and online gambling content.

Henry Williams, executive director of the MGCB, said in a statement that the state is committed to ensuring the expansion of legal gaming comes with the strongest possible safeguards for consumers. This partnership, he said, with Gamban provides just that.

Thanks to the partnership, Michigan residents can obtain a free Gamban license by visiting the MGCB website. Everyone is eligible to acquire one, with no requirement to be enrolled in the self-exclusion program.

Gamban blocks all online gambling material, including real money online casino content, regardless of regulatory status. That applies not only to licensed Michigan operators that offer casino games online but also to social casinos, crypto gambling and NFT-based wagering. The software works to minimize disruption to "everyday digital activities."

According to the press release, Gamban creates a layered approach to harm reduction by combining voluntary self-exclusion with device-specific blocking technology to provide support at every level in a person's life.

While Michigan offers a number of safe online casinos, Gamban offers another way for residents – especially those who suffer from gambling addiction – to curb their exposure to online gambling content and improve overall rates of recovery, according to Matt Zarb-Cousin, director of external affairs at Gamban.

The National Council on Problem Gambling estimates that approximately 6 million Americans meet the criteria for a gambling addiction. Michigan regulators recognize this as well as the "heightened responsibility" to ensure prominent consumer protections are in place as the online gambling industry continues to grow.

Sandra Johnson, responsible gaming section manager of the MGCB, emphasized the board's efforts to provide responsible gaming support to Michigan residents. Gamban, though, "helps people take back control."

Grant Lucas