Guest blog by Alyx Effron - Collectors MD

For most people, collecting starts as a passion - whether it’s sports cards, comics, sneakers, or memorabilia. There’s joy in the hunt, satisfaction in the display, and meaning in the memories these objects hold.But for some collectors, especially in today’s hyper-digital, high-frequency landscape, that passion can quietly morph into something else: compulsion.The rise of online marketplaces, live breaking platforms, mystery packs, and “chase” products has fundamentally changed the nature of the hobby. It’s no longer just about what you collect - it's how you acquire it. And increasingly, that how mirrors the behavior and psychology of gambling.Breaking, Chasing, &amp; The Slot Machine EffectLive stream card breaking has exploded in popularity, offering users the chance to pay into randomized openings of sealed product. On the surface, it looks like entertainment. But beneath that, the mechanics are eerily familiar: real money is exchanged for randomized outcomes, with intermittent rewards, a strong fear of missing out (FOMO), and a rapid cycle of stimulus and response.For many, it's fun. For others, it's a dangerous loop.Much like a slot machine, each break or rip offers the chance to win big - or walk away with nothing. And like gambling, the occasional “win” reinforces the behavior, even when the losses far outweigh the gains.The Mental Toll Behind The Mask Of The HobbyWhat makes this cycle so insidious is that it’s often hidden behind the mask of a socially accepted (even celebrated) hobby. Friends and family may not recognize the behavior as problematic. After all, it’s just collecting cards - right?But if you’re:<ul><li>Spending more than you can afford</li><li>Hiding purchases or downplaying their frequency</li><li>Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when you’re not engaging</li><li>Trying to stop and finding you can’t</li></ul>…then it may be time to reevaluate the role collecting is playing in your life.Building Guardrails In A Guardrail-Free SpaceUnlike traditional gambling environments, the hobby space has no regulatory framework. No required disclaimers. No age limits. No mandated protections. Collectors, especially young or vulnerable ones, are often left to navigate this complex terrain alone.That’s why Collectors MD partnered with Gamban.Together, we’re providing collectors with the tools to recognize harmful behavior and take proactive steps toward regaining control. Gamban’s software blocks access to high-risk platforms like Whatnot, Fanatics Live, and other gambling-adjacent apps—offering a much-needed line of defense for those who are struggling.This partnership isn’t about canceling the hobby. It’s about protecting the people in it.Moving Forward With Awareness &amp; SupportAt Collectors MD, we believe collecting can still be joyful, intentional, and meaningful. But only when it’s done with self-awareness - and the right support structures in place.Whether you're a parent worried about your child’s spending, a collector caught in the cycle, or simply someone trying to understand the changing landscape of the hobby, we’re here to help.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://collectorsmd.com/">https://collectorsmd.com/</a>Let’s rewrite what it means to be a collector in today’s world - not driven by addiction or algorithms, but by connection, purpose, and clarity.

When Collecting Feels Like Gambling

When collecting becomes compulsive, it can mirror gambling. Learn how platforms like Gamban and Collectors MD help protect hobbyists from harm.

Removing Just One Element – Time, Money or Access – Can Help

In fire safety, there's a simple concept called the fire triangle: heat, fuel, and oxygen. Take away just one of these, and the fire dies. We believe the same model applies to gambling recovery. Remove time, money or access, and you reduce the risk of further harm.<h4>Time</h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/gamban-new-features-track-your-time-and-money-saved">Time</a> is easy to overlook, but it's often the first thing gambling consumes.Not just the time spent betting — it's time spent thinking about gambling, chasing losses, worrying about money. Time is finite; every moment given to gambling is time taken from something else. By replacing gambling with something that occupies your time, you reduce the risk of further gambling harm by limiting the availability of gambling.<h4>Money</h4>The danger with gambling isn't just losing money — it's believing you can win it back. Many <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/block-gambling-transactions">banks</a> offer gambling spend blocks so this can help protect you from spending money on gambling. Unfortunately, many of us lose everything to gambling but find ourselves spending everything we get on gambling, or worse, finding other means to access money.<h4>Access</h4>Gambling is only a few taps away, and your phone is, among other things, an online casino. Gamban exists to remove that access — to take one side of the triangle away and give people space to breathe, think, and recover. Self-exclusion schemes like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.gamstop.co.uk/">GAMSTOP</a> are very effective at restricting access to online gambling. Having both in place is the best strategy. <h3>Putting the Fire Out</h3>The fire triangle teaches us a simple but powerful lesson: when you remove just one element, the fire dies. We can apply the same thinking to gambling harm: reducing time spent on gambling, removing access to gambling or restricting our ability to spend money on gambling.You don't have to do everything at once. Start with what's most achievable. Each element you remove reduces harm and creates space for recovery.<h4>Remove Time</h4><ul><li>Track when you feel most tempted to gamble and create alternative routines in those time slots</li><li>Replace unstructured time with planned activities, even small changes help: walks, calls, hobbies, volunteering</li></ul><h4>Restrict Money</h4><ul><li>Enable gambling blocks through your bank or financial apps (check if your bank offers this)</li><li>Delay access to money, move savings to an account you can't instantly access or use a pre-paid card for daily spending</li><li>Ask someone you trust to help manage your finances, if you're in a crisis phase</li></ul><h4>Block Access</h4><ul><li>Use software like Gamban to block gambling sites and apps across your devices</li><li>Register with a self-exclusion scheme – find localised options and support <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/help">here</a></li><li>Contact your mobile network or ISP to request gambling restrictions at the network level</li></ul>No one approach works for everyone, but even one of these changes can interrupt harmful patterns and help you move forward.

What Fire Teaches Us About Gambling

Fire needs fuel. So does gambling. Take away time, money or access - and reduce the help reduce harm

What Are My Odds?

Winning the Lottery May Sound Appealing, but How Likely Is It Actually?

Most people have played the lottery at least once, and the thought of instantly becoming a millionaire by spending just £2 appeals to a lot of people. It may seem worth it, but we suspect you won't feel the same way after reading this list of things that are more likely than winning the lotto.<h3> The Lottery</h3>The Euromillions is one of the most played lotteries in the world. With between 80 to 100 million people purchasing a ticket for a EuroMillions draw each week, the life-changing jackpot seems near impossible to obtain.In order to win, players need to match all five main numbers and both lucky star numbers. So with each play, you only have a 1 in 139,838,160 chance of getting the top prize. Do you regularly play the lottery? How much have you won? How much have you spent? If you ask someone who regularly buys lottery tickets if they have ever won a lottery, they are likely to say yes, they will remember the amount, how amazing it was, and they will be able to tell you everything about that day. But it's also extremely possible that if you ask them how much money they've spent on the lottery in their lives and compare it to what they've won, they'll be stumped. Not to add that what they have received is merely a fraction of what is being promoted as "the grand prize".Lotteries know how our selective memory works, which is one of many things we should keep in mind before playing, as is the following list of ludicrous things that are more likely than winning the lottery. <h3>Living to 100 </h3>Probability: 1 in 4It's shocking to learn that the chance of living to 100 or even longer is higher than winning the lottery. One in four babies born nowadays will live to be 100 years old. Some studies indicate that the probability of living more than 110 years is one in 50,000, especially for women who typically outlive men. So, instead of striving to win the lottery, it would be preferable to begin looking for hobbies to take up your time!<h3> Finding a four-leaf clover</h3>Probability: 1 in 10,000It's well known that you will be blessed with good fortune if you find a four-leaf clover. What are the chances of you finding one? The chances are pretty slim, 1 in 10,000. Nonetheless, you are nearly 14,000 times more likely to come across a 4-leaf clover than winning the lottery.  <h3>Become an Olympic athlete</h3>Probability 1 in 500,000We all know that being born with sporting ability is one of many requirements that can bring you closer to winning an Olympic medal. Becoming a great athlete involves discipline, training, hard work, conviction and effort. Yet, the chances of becoming an Olympic athlete are 1 in 500,000.But, when you think about it, training for the Olympics is still more likely than winning the lottery - in fact, it's 90 times more likely. It might be wiser to take up sport than try your luck at guessing a few numbers. <h3>Being hit by a meteorite</h3>Probability: 1 in 700,000 According to researchers, on average, one meteorite falls to earth each year. Normally this incredible "fireball" disintegrates before it hits the surface, or it's burnt down and reduced to a size that cannot cause harm.However, as rare as it may be, sometimes they get through our atmosphere, and the chance of being hit by one of these rocks is one in 700,000.<h3> Become a Movie Star</h3>Probability: 1 in 1,505,000Have you ever dreamed of being a movie star?The bad news is that the odds of making it to stardom are 1 in 1,505,000. The good news is that it's almost 100 times more likely than winning the lottery; a flight to Hollywood could be a better investment.<h3> Become a Billionaire</h3>Probability 1 in 2,800,000 While bumping into a billionaire isn't exactly commonplace. Out of a total population of nearly 8 billion, there are 2,775 billionaires. What are your chances of becoming a billionaire and being part of this very exclusive group of people? 1 in 2,867,513. Still far more likely than only winning a fraction of a billion on the lottery.<h3> Being struck by lightning</h3>Probability:1 in 10,000,000Being struck by lightning is, as we all know, unlikely. Experts have concluded that the chances of being struck by lightning are 1 in 10,000,000. And yet you are much more likely to be struck by lightning than to win the lottery.<h3> Getting attacked by a shark</h3>Probability: 1 in 11,500,000 Even if you regularly swim in the sea, the chance of being attacked by a shark is still very low. Sharks tend to be placid creatures who keep to themselves, unlike what many movies have led us to believe. The chance of being attacked by one of them is 1 in 11.5 million.<h3> Having identical quadruplets. </h3>Probability 1 in 15,000,000While the chances of twins are low, the chances of identical quadruplets are even lower: 1 in 15 million. And wouldn't you know it, you're still more likely to have quadruplets than win the lottery!<h3> Becoming a saint. </h3>Probability 1 in 22,000,000The average person has a one in 22 million chance of being made a saint or canonised by the Pope as it’s known. <h3>The House Always Wins</h3>Ever wonder how there are so many casinos? Because the odds are stacked against the player, the house ALWAYS wins. It's not just the lottery that has some awful chances of winning. Slot machine odds are some of the worst, with odds as low as one in about 34 million chance of winning the top prize when using the maximum coin play. With so many "opportunities" to become a millionaire, it can be challenging to resist the urge for one more ticket or one more spin. Gamban can help remove that temptation and block you from all online gambling. You can try Gamban for free today.<a href="https://gamban.com/">Try Gamban</a>

10 Things More Likely than Winning the Lottery

Guest blog by Desislava Bezinska-Sheinkova - Licensed Psychologist, PhD

Let me tell you the story of a man who came to me, drowning in the depths of a severe gambling addiction. For the sake of this story, I will call him Andrew.Andrew was 35 years old, working in the IT field, and carrying a crushing debt of tens of thousands. It was nearly a year ago when he first walked into my office. I remember the look in his eyes—hopelessness, shame, and exhaustion. His life was unraveling, and he could feel it slipping through his fingers. He had a girlfriend, but he was avoiding her, desperate to keep his secret hidden, terrified of her discovering the truth about how deep he had sunk.We began the recovery process, and after our third session, I gave him an unusual piece of advice: get a dog. It might have seemed unrelated to his gambling problem, but he listened. He got a dog and named him Prize.<figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/79c9020d-1be3-40da-9886-a67ff980d9a5.jpg" /></figure>Something remarkable happened. In just two months, while caring for Prize, Andrew managed to stay away from gambling completely. He poured his attention into his new companion, and for the first time in a long while, he felt a sense of responsibility for something beyond himself. But life has a way of testing our resolve.Andrew’s relationship fell apart, and with that heartbreak, he relapsed. He returned to gambling, spiraling deeper into debt, and eventually, he cut off contact with me. The process we had started came to an abrupt halt.Four months passed before I heard from him again. This time, the situation was even worse—his debt had doubled, and he had lost his girlfriend. He was utterly broken. When he reached out, he wasn’t just asking for help; he was begging.We restarted the process from square one. During our first session back, I asked about Prize. That’s when Andrew told me something that stopped me in my tracks.He had started noticing that his dog reacted to his gambling.I asked him what he meant, and he described a series of strange occurrences. Whenever he played casino games on his phone, the moment the game sounds started, Prize would leave the room and refuse to return until Andrew turned the game off. But that wasn’t all. After every big loss, when Andrew felt utterly devastated, Prize would get sick. Every single time—no exceptions.I asked him what made him decide to seek help again. His answer was simple, yet profound:“Prize is like my son. I don’t have kids, and he’s the only one who stayed when everyone else left. I don’t want him to suffer because of me. I don’t want to see my dog sick. I owe him to stop.”And so, we began the fight again. But this time, the motivation was different. This time, we weren’t just fighting to save one life.We were fighting to save two.My name is Desislava Bezinska-Sheinkova, and I hold a doctoral degree in psychology. Over the past ten years, I have dedicated my work exclusively to gambling addiction recovery, helping individuals regain control of their lives. Three years ago, I founded <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://hazartna-zavisimost.com/">PSIHONIKA</a>, the first center in Bulgaria specializing in gambling addiction treatment. Today, our center continues to support many people on their path to recovery.In addition to my clinical practice, I authored the book "GAMBLEX: LIFE ON THE LINE," available on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/GamblEX-Life-Dr-Desislava-Bezinska-Sheinkova/dp/B0DCZCMGKQ/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8Hk0oVzXgT2mzh2qRP1ObA.hm_tfjGvt2o9eGfaBGv7oKhzMsZLClpj1Wxoe2sAcOo&amp;amp;dib_tag=se&amp;amp;keywords=gamblex&amp;amp;qid=1741267014&amp;amp;sr=8-1">Amazon</a>. The book serves as a resource for compulsive gamblers and their loved ones, offering insights into addiction and providing a guide for starting the journey toward recovery. While I cannot personally reach everyone in need, this book allows me to extend my knowledge and support to a broader audience.Throughout my practice, I have observed an intriguing and unexpected pattern—dogs play a significant role in helping compulsive gamblers quit gambling.Andrew's story is not unique. Over the years, I have encountered many similar cases, where dogs played a crucial role in compulsive gamblers' recovery. This phenomenon is deeply rooted in psychological and emotional mechanisms, which we will explore further.The Psychological Impact of Dogs on Gambling Addiction RecoveryGambling addiction, or compulsive gambling, is a behavioral disorder characterized by an inability to control gambling activities, despite the negative consequences. It impacts financial stability, emotional well-being, and social relationships, often leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. While traditional treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups, and medication remain crucial in recovery, emerging research highlights the therapeutic benefits of animal-assisted interventions, particularly the role of dogs in supporting emotional and psychological healing.This article explores how dogs contribute to gambling addiction recovery, focusing on their impact on emotional regulation, behavioral stability, and mental health —all essential aspects of overcoming addiction.1. Emotional Regulation &amp; Stress ReductionOne of the defining characteristics of gambling addiction is the emotional rollercoaster associated with wins, losses, and cravings. Many individuals struggle with anxiety, guilt, depression, and stress, which often act as triggers for relapse.Dogs help regulate emotions by:<ul><li>Reducing stress and anxiety – Interacting with dogs has been scientifically proven to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and increase oxytocin (the "bonding hormone"), promoting relaxation and emotional stability.</li><li>Providing unconditional support – Unlike human relationships, which may be strained due to gambling-related behaviors, a dog’s presence is consistent, nonjudgmental, and comforting.</li><li>Alleviating loneliness – Gambling addiction often leads to social withdrawal, causing individuals to feel isolated and disconnected. A dog provides companionship, reducing emotional distress and preventing relapse.</li></ul>In Andrew’s case, Prize became his emotional anchor. After his gambling relapses, he began to recognize how his dog mirrored his distress. Prize’s reactions—leaving the room when Andrew gambled, becoming sick after a loss—acted as a wake-up call, helping Andrew gain emotional awareness of his behavior’s impact. This realization strengthened his commitment to recovery.Research in animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has found that pet ownership is linked to lower symptoms of depression and anxiety. For individuals in gambling recovery, the emotional presence of a dog provides a healthy coping mechanism, reducing the urge to gamble as a form of stress relief.2. Routine &amp; Responsibility: A Shift Away from Gambling HabitsGambling addiction often disrupts daily life, creating irregular schedules, financial instability, and impulsive decision-making. One of the most significant challenges in recovery is replacing destructive habits with positive, structured routines.Owning a dog naturally introduces:<ul><li>A consistent daily routine – Walking, feeding, and caring for a dog requires structure and commitment, reducing impulsive behaviors.</li><li>A sense of responsibility – Instead of focusing on gambling urges, individuals redirect their attention to caring for their pet, creating a healthier mindset.</li><li>Accountability – A dog’s well-being depends entirely on its owner, reinforcing long-term thinking and self-discipline.</li></ul>For Andrew, caring for Prize established a sense of purpose outside of gambling. In the months when he was gambling-free, his focus shifted from casino apps to ensuring Prize was well-fed, exercised, and happy. This newfound responsibility helped weaken his impulsive behaviors, showing how routine and stability contribute to breaking the gambling cycle.3. A New Source of Dopamine: Replacing Gambling with Positive RewardsGambling addiction is heavily linked to dopamine-driven compulsions. Winning bets trigger dopamine surges, reinforcing the desire to gamble, even when it results in financial loss.Dogs help address this by:<ul><li>Providing natural dopamine boosts – Activities like playing, petting, and training a dog stimulate dopamine and serotonin, creating a sense of joy and fulfillment.</li><li>Encouraging alternative engagement – Many gamblers relapse due to boredom or restlessness. Interacting with a dog fills this void with rewarding, non-destructive activities.</li><li>Promoting mindfulness and emotional connection – Unlike gambling, which encourages escapism, spending time with a dog grounds individuals in the present moment, a core principle in mindfulness-based therapy for addiction.</li></ul>Andrew realized that the same rush of excitement he once sought in gambling could be found in simpler, healthier moments with Prize—whether through playing fetch or going for walks. His dopamine-seeking behavior gradually shifted toward positive interactions, reinforcing his commitment to stay away from gambling triggers.ConclusionThe therapeutic role of dogs in gambling addiction recovery is profound. As seen in Andrew’s story, they provide emotional stability, structure, behavioral awareness, and motivation—all essential components of a successful recovery.For many struggling with gambling addiction, the journey is no longer just about saving themselves.It’s about saving two lives—human and canine—together.

How Dogs Can Help Overcome Gambling Addiction

Track Your Progress, Earn Badges, and Stay Motivated

At Gamban, we understand that every step you take toward a gambling-free life is an important one. Whether it’s your first day without gambling or you’ve been free for years, each milestone deserves recognition. That’s why we’re excited to introduce our new badges!<h3 class="thin">What Are Gamban Badges?</h3>Badges are earned as you use Gamban and progress on your journey. These badges are designed to celebrate your achievements, no matter how big or small. Whether you’ve reached a milestone in the number of days you’ve stayed gambling-free, saved money by not gambling, or taken important steps to protect yourself, there’s a badge for you.<h3 class="thin">How Do You Earn Badges?</h3>Earning badges with Gamban is simple and rewarding. Here are just a few examples of how you can unlock badges:<ul><li>Time Milestones: Earn badges for every day, week, and month that you stay free from gambling. Each milestone is a testament to your strength and commitment.</li><li>Money Saved: As you continue to stay gambling-free, you’ll also save money. Achieve badges as your savings grow, reminding you of the financial benefits of your hard work.</li><li>Taking Protective Steps: We’ll also recognise when you take steps to protect yourself from gambling, such as installing Gamban on all your devices, signing up for a self-exclusion scheme, or contacting a gambling helpline. These actions are vital in your journey, and they deserve to be celebrated.</li></ul><h3 class="thin">How Can Badges Help You?</h3>Badges aren’t just about collecting virtual rewards, they’re about recognising and celebrating your progress. When you see your badges, you’ll be reminded of the positive choices you’ve made. They can help motivate you to keep going, especially on tough days when the journey feels harder. Each badge is a symbol of your strength, determination, and the positive changes you’re making in your life.<h3 class="thin">Share Your Success and Inspire Others</h3>We know that sharing your achievements can be an important part of recovery. With Gamban Badges, you can choose to share your progress with friends, family, or your support group. Of course, if you prefer to keep your achievements private, that’s okay too.<h3 class="thin">What if I relapse? Do I lose badges?</h3><ul><li>If you relapse and reset your Gambling-Free Counter, your Time and Money Saved Badges will reset automatically. It’s a fresh start, and each new step forward is still progress on your journey.</li></ul><h3 class="thin">How can I view all my earned badges?</h3><ul><li>You can easily view all your earned badges in the "Badges" tab within the Gamban app or by logging in to your account on<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/?utm_source=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_medium=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_id=Badge+Blog"> gamban.com</a>.</li></ul><h3 class="thin">Do the badges sync across devices?</h3><ul><li>Yes, your badges will sync across all devices where Gamban is installed, so you can track your progress seamlessly no matter where you are.</li></ul><h3 class="thin">Will there be new badges introduced over time?</h3><ul><li>Yes, we plan to introduce new badges over time to celebrate even more milestones and achievements on your journey to recovery. Keep an eye out for updates!</li></ul><h3 class="thin">Will I be notified when I earn a badge?</h3><ul><li>Yes, you’ll receive a notification when you earn a new badge, so if you prefer not to be notified then you should turn off notifications in your settings.</li></ul><h3 class="thin">What happens to my badges if I cancel my Gamban subscription?</h3><ul><li>Your badges won’t go away if you cancel your subscription, but you’ll only be able to view and earn new badges with an active subscription.</li></ul>Download the latest update to start tracking your progress and earning badges today. <a class="btn btn-primary" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/?utm_source=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_medium=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_campaign=Badge+Blog&amp;utm_id=Badge+Blog" role="button">Start Your Journey</a>

Celebrate your Recovery Milestones with Gamban Badges!

Discover how Gamban's new Badges feature celebrates your milestones on the journey.

How Does Gamban Work? What Does Gamban Block? And Many More Questions Answered

Answering some Frequently Asked Questions   

<a href="https://gamban.com/product">Gamban</a> is an easy to use application which blocks online gambling on all of your installed devices, offering you a secure, reliable, and affordable option to stay away from gambling sites and apps, helping those with a gambling problem to fight the urge. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions:<h3>How does Gamban work?</h3>Once installed, the device will no longer be able to access gambling websites and apps. The software can be quickly installed on computers, mobile phones and tablets. We advise you to install Gamban on all the devices you use, so that you are fully protected. It works on <a href="https://gamban.com/compatibility">Mac OS, Windows, Android, and iOS.</a><h3>Is Gamban Safe?</h3>Other than blocking gambling websites and apps, Gamban doesn't intrude on your devices' use. All other websites and apps (not gambling related) work just as intended. However, if you do find something blocked that you believe shouldn't be, please don't hesitate to get in contact with our support team at info@gamban.com.<h3>Does Gamban work in my country?</h3><a href="https://gamban.com/blog/does-gamban-work-in-my-country">Yes.</a> We block thousands of gambling sites and apps, from every corner of the world, including many illegal or unregulated ones. It is an ever-growing list!<h3>I found a gambling website that Gamban does not block. What should I do?</h3>If you find an online gambling site that Gamban is not blocking, please let us know (info@gamban.com) and we’ll take care of it immediately – we love that part!<h3>Does Gamban block Crypto and Trading?</h3>Gamban recognises an increasing overlap between traditional gambling and emerging investment platforms, where there is significant potential for harm due to speculative trading and volatility risk exposure.Gamban has decided to block these sites in the interest of our users who have suffered harm as a result of <a href="https://gamban.com/blog/gamban-blocks-trading-platforms">gambling</a>.<h3>What is the difference between Gamban and GamStop?</h3>Gamban blocks the device from accessing thousands of gambling websites and apps;<a href="https://www.gamstop.co.uk/"> GAMSTOP</a> is the UK's National Online Self-Exclusion Scheme and prevents someone from logging into and registering with all gambling websites and apps run by companies licensed in Great Britain. Are you wondering why you need both? Because no one solution is perfect and we should all put as many obstacles as we can between ourselves and the gambling site. In fact, we should add a third source of friction: payment blocking. <a href="https://gamban.com/blog/belts-and-braces-why-more-than-one-tool-can-be-helpful">Here’s more on this topic.</a><h3>Leaders in self-exclusion technology</h3>Simply put: Gamban works. When you install Gamban, you are excluding yourself from thousands of online gambling platforms all over the world, not just a particular one or a small group. The software has been independently evaluated with very good results. A recent study conducted by independent charity GambleAware showed Gamban to be <a href="https://about.gambleaware.org/media/1813/blocking-software-evaluation-findings-report.pdf">up to 99% effective</a> in blocking users from gambling sites.Gamban manages to provide superior self-exclusion at a fraction of the cost of competitors. When you look at the tool’s results and capabilities, there’s simply no comparison. <a href="https://gamban.com/register/account">Click here</a> to start your journey towards recovery today.

What is Gamban?

Gamban explained: How it works, what it blocks, and how it can help you during your recovery journey.

Celebrate Every Milestone on Your Gambling-Free Journey with Gamban

<h3 class="thin">Day 1 starts today: Track How Long You’ve Been Gambling Free</h3>It can be easy to forget how far you’ve come on your recovery journey. Each new day without gambling is a new milestone and deserves recognition! Understanding this, we’ve looked into ways to support you better.Now, you can keep track of how many days you’ve been gambling-free right from your Gamban app!From the moment you install Gamban, your app begins tracking how long you've been on this new path. This counter reminds you that every day is an achievement worth celebrating.In this blog, we will delve into a detailed breakdown of how the Money Saved and Time Saved Trackers work and how they can positively impact and improve your recovery journey.  <h3 class="thin">How Much Time Have I Saved?</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/6119bfb8-5dd5-46bd-ba20-ac5edaf22e24.jpg" /></figure>It’s good to not only know how many days you’ve been gambling-free but also how much time you have saved by not gambling. Imagine what you could do with all that extra time! Whether it's spending more moments with family, pursuing a new hobby – or simply enjoying a stress-free life – knowing how much time you've saved can be a powerful motivator on your journey to recovery.  <h3 class="thin">How Much Money Have I Saved?</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/db576abe-452c-4e16-82d6-82618bc36ce0.jpg" /></figure>Another key feature of the Gamban app is the Money Saved Tracker. This tool lets you see how much money you've saved since using Gamban. By providing your previous gambling spending, Gamban calculates and shows you the total savings since you stopped gambling.  <h3 class="thin">How Do I Set These Up?</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://web-cdn.gamban.com/img/3722e689-dc5b-49f1-b82f-8d8cf93e12f8.jpg" /></figure>Setting up your Time and Money Saved Trackers is simple. When you create your Gamban account, you'll be prompted to enter your average gambling time and spend, as well as your preferred currency. The Trackers will then automatically calculate the time and money you've saved since you started using Gamban.It’s as easy as that to get started! If you didn’t set up the above when you signed up, you can visit My Profile within the Gamban app to add your information for a more personalised experience. Here's a glimpse into how the Time Saved Tracker works:<ul><li>Personalised Calculations</li></ul>To start, you just need to enter your average amount of time previously spent on gambling. Using this information, the tracker will calculate the total hours, days, or even weeks you've saved since starting your recovery journey with Gamban. Here's how the Money Saved Tracker works:<ul><li>Tailored Calculations</li></ul>During the Gamban setup, you will be asked if you would like to set up your Money Saved Tracker. You simply need to input your average previous gambling expenditure. Based on this information, the tracker will automatically calculate the amount of money you've saved since you began using Gamban.<ul><li>Choose Your Currency</li></ul>To make the tracker more personalised and relevant, we've added a feature allowing you to select your preferred currency. Whether it's pounds, euros, dollars or any other, you can see your savings in the most familiar format.  <h3 class="thin">Start Saving with Us Today</h3>Update your Gamban app today and experience the profound difference your choices are making in your life! Join us in celebrating every moment and milestone on your recovery journey! <a class="btn btn-primary" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/register/account" role="button">Start Your Journey</a>

Gamban New Features: Track Your Time and Money Saved

Danny Speaks about His Journey of Gambling Addiction.

Watch Danny's story and see how Gamban helped him with his fight against addiction.  

<figure class="media"><div data-oembed-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQpC-jiTBUk"><div style="position:relative;padding-bottom:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56.2493%"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JQpC-jiTBUk" style="position:absolute;width:100%;height:100%;top:0;left:0" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media"></iframe></div></div></figure>From as young as 18, Danny would find himself gambling every paycheck he had away. This would become a repeated cycle every month of being paid, waking up at 4 am and gambling it all away by 6 am. Danny would then have to find a payday lender, or any other way to borrow money, just to be able to afford a bus pass for the month to get into work.Danny recounts his lowest memory is when he was sat next to his ill mother in hospital, finding himself placing bets on his phone. He came to realised he was more concerned about the bets he placed than his ill mother.  Danny had always wanted to stop his gambling habit, but only started trying to stop in his late 20s, realising he had missed out on so much in his life.<blockquote>"I would still be gambling if it wasn't for the Gamban App and others, because I would have all the temptations there to gamble, constantly.Life now is good. I don't worry about money, I don't have to tell lies to my friends, I've set myself targets and I'm looking forward to tomorrow. Whereas when I was gambling I used to dread waking up each day."</blockquote>Danny is just one of the many problem gamblers who have been helped, not only by Gamban, but by the number of gambling support organisations that are available.For more information on Gamban's Gambling blocking <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/apps">click here</a>.For more resources on how to self-exclude from online gambling <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/blog/ban-yourself-from-online-gambling">click here</a>.

Blocking Online Gambling - Danny's Story

Danny speaks about his journey of gambling addiction, to receiving the help he needed to break the habit.

Protect ALL of Your Devices for As Long as You Need

"Cool Off" with Gamban From as Little as £2.49 a month.

You've spoken, and we've listened. In order to make Gamban accessible to more users, we've decided to update our pricing.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/pricing">https://gamban.com/pricing</a>We now offer a monthly payment option aimed at individuals who would prefer to “cool off” after a big loss. Users can now protect ALL of their devices with one licence from as little as £2.49 per month. However, if you would prefer, you can still purchase Gamban with a yearly subscription at £24.99.Monthly subscribers will still be able to claim all the same benefits as yearly subscribers;<ul><li>Protect unlimited devices*</li><li>7 day free trial</li><li>Access to Gamban resources</li><li>Technical Support</li></ul> Below are the main pricings for other currencies.<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Currency</td><td>Monthly Subscription</td><td>Yearly Subscription</td></tr><tr><td>UK</td><td>£2.49</td><td>£24.99 </td></tr><tr><td>US</td><td>$3.49</td><td>$34.99</td></tr><tr><td>EUR</td><td>€2.99</td><td>€29.99</td></tr><tr><td>AUS</td><td>$5.49</td><td>$54.99</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>Monthly subscriptions will be charged or rebilled on the date of purchase each month.If you have any questions regarding Gamban pricing please do not hesitate to check out our support page - <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.zendesk.com/hc/en-us">https://gamban.zendesk.com</a> or contact us at info@gamban.com.*Subject to Gamban's <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gamban.com/eula">Fair Use Policy</a>

Take a Break with Gamban's New Monthly Subscription

We now offer a monthly payment option aimed at individuals who would prefer to “cool off” after a big loss.

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Gamban New Features: Track Your Time and Money Saved

Blocking Online Gambling - Danny's Story

Take a Break with Gamban's New Monthly Subscription

Protect ALL Of Your Devices

News & Articles

List of Articles

When Collecting Feels Like Gambling

What Fire Teaches Us About Gambling

10 Things More Likely than Winning the Lottery

How Dogs Can Help Overcome Gambling Addiction

Celebrate your Recovery Milestones with Gamban Badges!

What is Gamban?

Gamban New Features: Track Your Time and Money Saved

Blocking Online Gambling - Danny's Story

Take a Break with Gamban's New Monthly Subscription

Protect ALL Of Your Devices

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