Help
How to block gambling sites and apps
Set up blocks on your phone and computer, then join your province's self-exclusion program. Using both makes gambling harder to reach on a bad day.
Block gambling on your phone
- Delete betting appsRemove every betting, casino and lottery app from your phone and tablet.
- Lock app installsUse your phone's screen-time or parental settings to block new app installs. Let someone you trust set the passcode.
- Block gambling websitesIn the same settings, turn on website limits and add the gambling sites you used to the blocked list.
- Add a content filterA gambling blocker app or a filter on your home Wi-Fi router can cover every device at home.
- Repeat on every deviceDo the same on your computer, tablet and any work device. An unblocked device makes it easier to get around the other blocks.
- Close open accountsFollow how to close a betting account for each site where you still have a login.
Self-exclusion programs by province
| Province | Program | What it covers | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario | BetGuard | All regulated online gaming in Ontario | One online portal, for ages 19+ |
| Alberta | AGLC Self-Exclusion Program | Centralized program, includes Play Alberta | Six months, one year, two years or three years; start at selfexclusion.ca |
| British Columbia | Voluntary self-exclusion | Casinos, bingo halls and PlayNow.com | Free; you choose the period |
| Manitoba | Voluntary Self-Exclusion (VSE) | Casinos of Winnipeg, Shark Club Gaming Centre, PlayNow.com | Choose one of them or all |
| Quebec | Loto-Québec autoexclusion | Gambling run by Loto-Québec; check which venues and sites | Choose three months to five years; free, confidential, irrevocable |
| Saskatchewan | Play breaks and self-exclusion | PlayNow.com | Also time and money pop-up reminders |
Checked Oct 27, 2026. Confirm the period options and what is covered with the program before you sign up.
Other ways to add a barrier
Bank card gambling block
Ask your bank whether it can block gambling payments on your card.
A friend holds passwords
Ask someone you trust to set and keep the passcodes for screen-time settings and blocker apps.
Talk to a helpline
Gambling Support BC, the Manitoba Gambling Helpline and the AHS Addiction Helpline answer 24/7. ConnexOntario in Ontario offers phone, text and live chat.
If you feel unsafe
Call or text 9-8-8 any time to reach suicide crisis support.
Sources
- igamingontario.ca /en/news/betguard-centralized-self-exclusion-ont… · checked Oct 27, 2026
- gov.bc.ca /gov/content/sports-culture/gambling-fundraising… · checked Oct 27, 2026
- try.playalberta.ca /responsible-gambling-in-alberta-how-to-stay-in-… · checked Oct 27, 2026
- bienjouer.lotoquebec.com /fr/autoexclusion/etablissement · checked Oct 27, 2026
- mbll.ca /content/concerned-about-your-gambling · checked Oct 27, 2026
- saskatchewan.ca /government/news-and-media/2022/november/03/sask… · checked Oct 27, 2026
- connexontario.ca /en-ca · checked Oct 27, 2026
- 988.ca · checked Oct 27, 2026
Questions
How does PlayNow self-exclusion work in BC?
In BC, casinos, bingo halls and PlayNow.com must offer a free, voluntary self-exclusion program that bars you from them for a specified period. Check the official BC government page in the sources for how to enrol. More help: gambling help by province.
Can I cancel Loto-Québec self-exclusion early?
No. Loto-Québec says enrolment in its autoexclusion program is confidential, free and irrevocable. Choose the length carefully before you sign.
What does BetGuard cover in Ontario?
BetGuard lets people aged 19+ opt out of all Ontario regulated online gaming platforms through one online portal.
Does an app that blocks gambling sites always work?
No. Blockers can be switched off or bypassed on another device. They work better together with self-exclusion, a bank block and someone you trust holding the passwords.