A U.K.-developed app called Gamban is now available in Japan, aiming to curb online gambling by blocking access to illegal casino sites. The move responds to reports from Japan’s National Police Agency, which estimates that around 3.37 million Japanese have used online casinos, despite their illegal status.
Blocking Access and Tracking Progress
Gamban restricts access to over 360,000 gambling websites and apps, adding roughly 300 new sites daily. The app also tracks time and money saved by users who avoid gambling, reinforcing positive habits.
Matt Zarb-Cousin, Gamban’s co-founder, acknowledged that some users may try to bypass the app, making enforcement a challenge. To address affordability, Japan’s Society Concerned About Gambling Addiction covers the app’s annual £25 ($33.7) fee for those unable to pay. About 90 people have already enrolled through this nonprofit.
Noriko Tanaka, head of the organization and a recovering addict, praised the app’s effectiveness in preventing gambling harm, though she noted that limited funding restricts broader distribution.
Legal Gaps and Young Users at Risk
Japan recently strengthened gambling laws, banning online casinos and their advertising. However, enforcement remains weak, particularly against foreign-operated platforms targeting Japanese users. While authorities can request content removal from internet providers and social media, most operators are based in countries where online gambling is legal.
The report also highlighted concerns about young people gambling online and incidents of police involvement in related offenses, underscoring the urgent need for preventative measures like Gamban.
