Why this matters for people and for support services

Play 971 has entered the UAE market as the country’s first officially licensed and regulated online gaming platform.According to industry reports, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) added Play 971 to its public licence list on 28 November.Many of the games on the platform come from companies that already hold a licence. However, the live-casino section includes games from suppliers that do not yet appear on the public list of approved providers. What does that mean? In most regulated markets, casinos and the companies that make their games are licensed separately.It raises the question of whether every part of the site has actually been approved by the regulator.<h2>Why this matters</h2>This launch is significant in the UAE’s move towards a regulated gambling sector. Until now, the UAE Lottery has been the only legal option.For a country that has long maintained strict prohibitions, granting an online-gaming licence is a notable policy shift.Sources suggest regulations allow for one online licensee per emirate, so there could be up to seven operators in the market. That assumes, of course, that every emirate opts to back an online gaming offering in the first place.Even though the rules bar Emiratis from gambling, the country’s population is around 88% expat, giving operators a sizeable potential customer base. Given the history and context, an online gambling rollout carries both promise and risks. Promise for regulators and operators looking for new revenue streams, and risks for individuals and communities who may face harm from exposure to gambling. Especially in a region where support services and addiction-awareness infrastructure may not yet be well established.<h2>Why this matters for people and for support services</h2>For products like Gamban, aiming to support people at risk and suffering from gambling harm, this kind of shift is a sign that more people may soon have access to online gambling.Legal changes don’t necessarily mean safe changesJust because a government grants a licence does not guarantee protection for players. If the UAE is opening its doors to online gambling, that could expose new groups to real risks.As more operators enter newly regulated markets, it becomes even more important for people to have practical ways to stay in control or to quit altogether, such as blocking tools and self-exclusion options. The new platform has already been added to Gamban’s blocklist, keeping users protected from day one. Services focused on harm prevention will only become more crucial as markets like the UAE evolve.

The UAE Just Licensed Its First Online Casino

Play 971 has entered the UAE market as the country’s first officially licensed and regulated online gaming platform.

Making online gambling blocking accessible to millions in Japan

We’re excited to announce that Gamban is now available in <a href="gamban.jp">Japanese</a>, making it easier for Japanese speakers to access our blocking software and take steps toward a life free from gambling harm.<h3>More Than Just a Translation</h3>With the help of designers based in Tokyo, we’ve created a dedicated website built to feel familiar for people in Japan. By tailoring the experience this way, we have made it easier for more users to navigate the website, understand Gamban and take their first step towards recovery.While Gamban was created to block gambling sites, we also want to provide as many people as possible with the right information, in the right language, at the right time.This update is part of our continuous aspiration to make Gamban accessible to as many people as possible, wherever they are and whatever language they speak. By offering Gamban in Japanese, we aim to remove barriers for those who may otherwise struggle to find the right tools to help them quit online gambling.<blockquote>Matt Zarb-Cousin, co-founder of Gamban, said: “We are committed to not only translating but also localising Gamban so it looks and feels familiar to people, wherever they might be. Our mission is not only to make blocking software as good as it can be, but also as accessible as possible.”</blockquote>We’ve been fortunate to receive input and support from Japanese organisations such as The Society Concerned About Gambling Addiction, helping us ensure the translation is accurate, accessible, and culturally appropriate for users in Japan.<blockquote>We are a Japanese private organisation that supports people with gambling addiction and their families. Through this collaboration with Gamban, we expect to be able to further support the recovery of those with addiction by using a cutting-edge app that has never been available in Japan before.</blockquote>Noriko Tanaka, Representative, The Society Concerned About Gambling Addiction <h3>Why This Matters for Japan</h3>Behind the statistics are real people and families affected by gambling harm. Although most gambling is illegal in Japan, the rise of online casinos has made it easier than ever to gamble, often in secret and without clear warnings about the risks.<h4>The hidden scale </h4>A March 2025 National Police Agency survey estimated that 3.37 million Japanese have used overseas online casinos, with around 2 million active users wagering an average of ¥630,000 per person per year, totalling roughly ¥1.24 trillion (approximately US $8.4 billion) annually.<h4>Low awareness of illegality</h4>Around 40% of users believe online casinos are legal, and 75% first try free-play apps before moving to real-money gambling.<h4>Addiction and harm</h4>Almost 60% of users report addictive symptoms, and nearly half borrow money from family, friends or consumer finance to keep gambling.By making Gamban available in Japanese, we hope to offer more people a practical, stigma-free first step, helping people block gambling sites before the harm gets worse and giving them space to seek support and begin recovery.Gamban is already available in several other languages, including English, French, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazilian), Dutch, Norwegian, and Finnish. Adding Japanese expands that reach even further, helping us deliver on our commitment to supporting people worldwide.If you’re in Japan and want to learn more about how Gamban can help, visit <a href="gamban.jp">gamban.jp</a>

Gamban Now Available in Japanese!

Gamban is now available in Japanese with a fully localised website, helping more people in Japan block gambling sites and begin recovery.

The New York Times Wants to Hear From You

We’ve been contacted by Jenny Vrentas, a reporter at The New York Times, who is working on a<s> </s>story about the spread of online crypto casinos and the role of gambling influencers streaming on platforms like YouTube and Kick. The reporters are looking to connect with people who have used the sites to hear their experiences and gain a deeper understanding of the issue.Jenny and her team are especially interested in hearing from:<ul><li>People based in the U.S.</li><li>Under 25 years old</li><li>Who have used online crypto casinos like Stake, Roobet, Rollbit or Shuffle</li><li>And are open to sharing their experiences (positive or negative)</li></ul>If you’d like to share your story, you can reach Jenny directly:<ul><li>Email: jenny.vrentas@nytimes.com</li><li>Text, WhatsApp, or Signal: (+1) 814-883-0284</li></ul>

Share Your Experience With Crypto Casinos

The New York Times is investigating the rise of online crypto casinos and gambling influencers. If you’re under 25 in the U.S. and have used sites like Stake, Roobet, Rollbit or Shuffle, share your experience to help reveal the risks and realities of crypto gambling.

Take Part in a University of Sydney Research Study 

We’re inviting our users to take part in a research study run by the University of Sydney. The study explores how people experience Gamban and looks for ways to improve gambling blocking software as a harm minimisation tool.<h3>Who can take part?</h3>You can take part if you:<ul><li>are at least 18 years old</li><li>currently use Gamban</li><li>can read and understand English</li></ul><h3>What’s involved?</h3>You’ll complete an online survey about your experience using Gamban, as well as some background questions. It takes about 20 minutes.At the end, you’ll see your Gambling Recovery Score, along with a short explanation of what it means.<h3>How to join</h3>If you’d like to take part, simply click this link to start the survey:<a class="btn btn-primary" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://sydney.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0cZ3OFUHQECZs4C" role="button">Start the survey</a> <h3>Questions?</h3>If you have any questions about the study, you can contact:Dr Dilushi ChandrakumarFaculty of Science, School of PsychologyThe University of SydneyEmail: dilushi.chandrakumar@sydney.edu.au<h3>Important details</h3><ul><li>The study has been approved by the University’s Human Research Ethics Committee [2025_HE000601].</li><li>Taking part is completely voluntary, and you can stop at any time before submitting your answers.</li><li>All your answers will be kept anonymous and securely stored.</li></ul>Thank you for helping to improve tools like Gamban for everyone.

Share Your Experience With Gamban 

Join a short interview and help improve support for those in gambling recovery

<h4>Help Improve Financial Recovery Tools</h4>GaimControl is conducting research to better understand the financial challenges faced during gambling recovery. They are inviting individuals with lived experience to take part in a short interview, with a £25 Amazon voucher offered as a thank you for your time.By taking part in a short interview, you will have the opportunity to influence how future financial services and support tools are designed - helping make recovery easier and more sustainable for others.What to expect<ul><li>A one-off, 15-minute conversation over Zoom or phone</li><li>No preparation needed</li><li>Completely confidential and informal</li></ul>Interested?Email: contact@gaimcontrol.comWith the subject: Gamban InterviewsYou’ll receive a link to schedule your interview after registering your interest.Please note: GaimControl is organising this research independently. Gamban is sharing this opportunity.

Help Shape Financial Recovery and Get a £25 Voucher

Gamban users are invited to a 15-minute GaimControl interview to help shape better financial tools for recovery. £25 Amazon voucher for participants.

New partnership provides PFA NI members free access to Gamban's blocking software

We’re excited to announce that we’ve partnered with the Professional Footballers’ Association of Northern Ireland (PFA NI) to support professional footballers in tackling gambling-related harm.Through this partnership, we’re providing PFA NI members with free access to our industry-leading technology, which blocks access to gambling websites and apps across multiple devices. By offering this service, we aim to help protect players from the risks of gambling addiction and give them the tools they need to take control of their well-being.Melissa Etherington, Partnerships Executive at Gamban, said:  “Gambling addiction is a growing issue in football, which impacts mental health, finances, and a player’s performance on the pitch. It also has the potential to impact sports integrity. We are delighted to partner with PFA NI to raise awareness of Gamban among those most at risk from harms related to online gambling.”Michael Carvill, CEO of PFA NI, said:  “As the representative body for professional footballers in Northern Ireland, we are committed to supporting our members both on and off the pitch. Gambling addiction is a growing concern within football, and this partnership with Gamban is a significant step in providing practical help to those who need it.”At Gamban, we’re committed to working with organisations to reduce gambling harm and support those affected. This partnership with PFA NI is a key part of our mission to make a positive impact in the world of professional football.

PFA NI Partners with Gamban

Gamban Expands Accessibility with Finnish Language Update

At Gamban, we’re always working to make the decision to quit gambling as easy as possible. That’s why we’re excited to announce that Gamban is now available in Finnish!With gambling harming thousands of individuals in Finland, we recognise the importance of providing tools that are easy to access and use in a person’s native language. By adding Finnish, we’re ensuring that more people can take control of their gambling habits without language barriers standing in the way.<h3>Why We Chose Finnish</h3>Gambling is deeply embedded in Finnish culture, and while there are efforts to curb the harms arising from it, many still struggle to find practical tools. By introducing Finnish, we're ensuring that individuals seeking help can access Gamban without language being a barrier."Language should never be a barrier to accessing help. By introducing Finnish to Gamban, we’re ensuring that more people in Finland can access the tools they need. We hope this update makes the process of blocking gambling on devices more intuitive and effective." – Jack Symons, CEO of Gamban<h3>Gamban Partnerships</h3>In Finland, Gamban is partnered with Veikkaus, the government owned betting agency which currently holds a monopoly in the country. Through this partnership fully paid for Gamban licences are distributed free of charge to customers. “Veikkaus has built a comprehensive and unique safer gambling environment for our customers, and Gamban is an additional service to those who want to make a self-exclusion to all Veikkaus games. It’s also offered to customers with signs of risky behaviour when they are contacted through care calls. Gamban has been a really helpful service, and we are happy that it’s now available in Finnish.” - Susanna Saikkonen, VP Sustainability at Veikkaus<h3>Expanding Our Reach</h3>Gambling harm is a challenge that knows no borders, and our mission is to support as many people as possible. By expanding Gamban to include Finnish, we're reaching more individuals across Europe and beyond. Now available in seven languages: English, French, Spanish, Dutch, Brazilian Portuguese, Finnish, and Norwegian. Gamban is more accessible than ever, ensuring that support reaches those who need it, wherever they are.<h3>How to Access Gamban in Finnish</h3>If you’re an existing Gamban user, simply update your app to access the new Finnish language option. If you're new to Gamban, getting started is simple, just download the app or visit our website to sign up.No matter where you are in your recovery journey, Gamban is here to help.

Gamban Now Available in Finnish!

Gamban is now available in Finnish, making it easier for people in Finland to access powerful tools for gambling recovery.

New Language Update Strengthens Support in Norway

At Gamban, we’re always working to remove any barriers in the way of quitting gambling. Today, we’re proud to announce that Gamban is now available in Norwegian!This update ensures that even more individuals across Norway can use Gamban with ease, giving them access to a trusted gambling-blocking solution in their native language.<h3>Why We Chose Norwegian</h3>Despite Norway’s strict gambling regulations, unlicensed gambling sites remain widely accessible, increasing the risk of gambling harm. Many individuals struggling with gambling addiction need simple, effective tools to block access to gambling websites and apps - and language shouldn’t be an obstacle.By introducing Norwegian, Gamban is making self-exclusion more intuitive and accessible for people across Norway.“Gamban has long standing partnerships in place with key organisations in Norway. Having a Norwegian version of Gamban seemed like a natural next step towards making the product more accessible in the country”. James Forman - Account Executive at Gamban <h3>Gamban Partnerships  </h3>In Norway, Gamban has Partnerships with Norsk Tipping, Spillavhengighet Norge, Hjelpelinjen,  Blå Kors Norge and Rikstoto. Through these organisations fully paid for Gamban licences are available to all Norwegian residents. “Having offered Gamban free of charge to all our customers for many years, we’re now delighted to be able to offer this important resource in Norwegian. Making it even easier for all of our customers to block all known gambling sites when they self-exclude from our platform”. Per Einar Karlsen - Senior RG Advisor at Norsk Tipping“We are very happy that information about Gamban is now also available in Norwegian. Our service users often use Gamban and now the protection is even more accessible”. Magnus Pedersen - Political Advisor for Spillavhengighet Norge"We often get feedback from our participants that Gamban is a good tool to limit access to gambling websites. We are happy that it is now also available in Norwegian for even greater ease of use." Mona Finstad - Therapist at Blå Kors Norge<h3>Expanding Our Reach</h3>Gamban is now available in seven languages: English, French, Spanish, Dutch, Brazilian Portuguese, Finnish, and Norwegian. This expansion strengthens our ability to support individuals worldwide, ensuring that help is always available, no matter where you are or what language you speak.<h3>How to Access Gamban in Norwegian</h3>If you already use Gamban, simply update your app to access the Norwegian language option. If you’re new to Gamban, downloading the app is quick and easy - visit our website or app store page to get started today.Whether you’re taking the first step or reinforcing your commitment to recovery, Gamban is here to help.

Gamban Now Available in Norwegian!

Gamban is now available in Norwegian, helping people across Norway block gambling sites in their native language and take back control.

Smart money management for gambling recovery

Gambling addiction is a complex issue that affects millions of people worldwide, with far-reaching consequences not just for individuals, but also for their friends, families, and communities. The financial, emotional, and social costs of gambling harm are often overlooked, leaving many without the support they need.To address these challenges, we are excited to announce our latest partnership with Sibstar, an innovative debit card and app designed to help protect individuals from gambling-related harm. This collaboration aligns with our shared mission to provide effective tools for reducing gambling harm and supporting those in recovery.Sibstar offers a range of money management features that empower customers to regain control of their finances. The Sibstar debit card can be loaded with a chosen amount of money, and its functionality can be managed via the Sibstar app. Key features include:<ul><li>A gambling block to prevent transactions with gambling merchants.</li><li>Spending controls, including monthly, daily, and ATM withdrawal limits.</li><li>Online and phone transaction switches, enabling users to control where their money is spent.</li><li>Instant freeze/unfreeze functionality for added flexibility.</li><li>Auto top-up options to maintain a daily balance.</li><li>Real-time notifications to track spending in detail.</li></ul>What makes Sibstar unique is its dual-management capability. Customers can self-manage their app and debit card or choose to share management with a trusted friend or family member. This added layer of accountability ensures that individuals who need extra support have it readily available.Sibstar’s approach to money management is built around self-empowerment and informed decision-making, which are critical for addressing gambling harm. By providing practical tools and real-time support, Sibstar enables individuals to set their own limits, monitor their behaviour, and make healthier financial decisions.Through this partnership, we aim to build on our promotion of Layered Self-Exclusion by promoting further resources available to individuals seeking to quit gambling with Gamban. Together, Gamban and Sibstar want to create more robust pathways to assist with addiction recovery, encouraging individuals to take steps that enhance their likelihood of gambling abstinence.As gambling harms continue to grow, innovative solutions like Sibstar are more important than ever. This partnership represents a significant step forward in promoting healthier, more informed money management and supporting long-term recovery.Learn more about Sibstar here. - <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.sibstar.co.uk/quitgambling">https://www.sibstar.co.uk/quitgambling</a>

Sibstar Partners With Gamban

Discover how Gamban and Sibstar are partnering to support recovery from gambling harm with innovative tools and solutions.

Announcements

The UAE Just Licensed Its First Online Casino

Gamban Now Available in Japanese!

Help Shape Financial Recovery and Get a £25 Voucher

PFA NI Partners with Gamban

Gamban Now Available in Finnish!

Gamban Now Available in Norwegian!

Sibstar Partners With Gamban

Protect ALL Of Your Devices

Announcements

List of Articles

The UAE Just Licensed Its First Online Casino

Gamban Now Available in Japanese!

Share Your Experience With Crypto Casinos

Share Your Experience With Gamban

Help Shape Financial Recovery and Get a £25 Voucher

PFA NI Partners with Gamban

Gamban Now Available in Finnish!

Gamban Now Available in Norwegian!

Sibstar Partners With Gamban

Protect ALL Of Your Devices

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