GamblePause

Gamblepause initiative

About this app

Take a break from gambling with a timed self‑exclusion you can’t pause or shorten. Once you start an exclusion, access to gambling sites and related services is blocked until the timer ends.

How it works

Uses Android’s on‑device VPN (VpnService) to enforce device‑wide blocking locally on your phone. Filtering happens on‑device; no traffic is routed to external servers.
Runs as an ongoing foreground service with a clear, persistent notification while the exclusion is active.
Starts immediately after you confirm and stays active until the timer expires. Only one VPN‑based app can be active at a time on Android.
Controls

You can’t pause, restart, or shorten an active exclusion. To end the block, wait for the selected time to expire.
Exact timing is used to end the exclusion at the time you chose.
Privacy

No browsing traffic is sent to external servers for analysis.
The app does not access your location, camera, or microphone.
Notes and limitations

Blocking focuses on gambling domains from a maintained blocklist. New sites appear frequently; effectiveness can vary.
On Android 13+, you may need to allow notifications so the ongoing service notification can be shown.
This tool supports healthier habits but can’t guarantee every source is blocked. Consider combining it with your device’s other restriction features.