BetBlocker launches app in Serbian to support gamblers

UK and US based charity BetBlocker, renowned for providing free and anonymous gambling management tools, has officially launched a Serbian-language version of its app. This move, undertaken in collaboration with the affiliate website Gamblers Connect, marks another milestone in BetBlocker's broader mission to provide accessible and inclusive support to individuals struggling with gambling addiction—regardless of language or location.

This latest initiative reinforces BetBlocker's commitment to harm minimization and digital inclusion. As part of an ambitious language expansion strategy, the organization continues to translate and adapt its services to suit the needs of diverse communities around the world. The newly launched Serbian version is tailored to serve over 7 million Serbian speakers in Serbia and approximately 3 million more across the globe, offering a vital resource in a region where problem gambling support is limited.

Making responsible gambling tools accessible to all

In the past year, BetBlocker has intensified its efforts to eliminate language barriers that can prevent individuals from accessing support. Through its targeted language provision program, BetBlocker is prioritizing seamless user experience and ensuring that tools for gambling management are available in users’ first languages. The rationale is simple yet powerful: users are more likely to seek help and effectively use digital solutions if those tools communicate in their native tongue.

As Serbia’s gambling industry continues to expand rapidly, the availability of support services remains insufficient. According to a 2018 report in the International Gambling Studies journal, around 0.5% of Serbian respondents were identified as problem gamblers, with sports betting participants notably overrepresented in this group. As online betting continues to surge across the Balkans, making gambling management solutions like BetBlocker available in Serbian could help mitigate gambling-related harm and support users in gaining better control over their habits.

Gamblers Connect plays a crucial role in localization

BetBlocker's ability to offer a Serbian-language version of its app was made possible through a meaningful collaboration with Gamblers Connect, a gaming affiliate platform known for its advocacy of responsible gambling. The translation services for this version were provided pro bono by Gamblers Connect, underlining their dedication to player safety and support.

Gjorgje Ristikj, founder of Gamblers Connect, emphasized the importance of this collaboration:
“I’m glad to see our collaboration with BetBlocker continuing in such a positive and impactful way. Launching the Serbian version is a meaningful step forward, and we’re proud to support responsible gambling initiatives that truly make a difference.”

Gamblers Connect’s involvement highlights the potential of affiliate platforms to act as active contributors in the field of safer gambling. By extending their communications expertise and resources, affiliates can play a transformative role in delivering harm minimization tools to audiences that might otherwise remain underserved.

A new benchmark for affiliate and charity partnerships

For BetBlocker, the Serbian language rollout represents more than just a technical update—it symbolizes a pioneering approach to collaboration within the gambling industry. Duncan Garvie, Founder and Trustee of BetBlocker, highlighted that collaborating with Gamblers Connect delivers a strong signal to the affiliate industry:

“For me, this project is a win for everyone! Obviously it’s great news for Serbian gamblers that BetBlocker is now available in their language. Serbia doesn’t currently have the range of support options for people looking to stop or manage their gambling, so this is a substantial step forward in terms of harm minimisation.”

Garvie continued:
“But alongside this, Gamblers Connect supporting us to deliver this new service to Serbia is a clear statement of intent. The affiliate sector has been substantially under-engaged when it comes to messaging around safer gambling. And affiliates are expert communicators. No-one knows how to communicate a message to players better than affiliates. To have Gamblers Connect work with us on this project sets a fantastic example for the entire affiliate sector. One we hope will foster greater cooperation between charities and affiliates in future.”

Addressing the lack of regional support infrastructure

Despite the rising popularity of gambling in Serbia, infrastructure for addiction support remains scarce. There are few dedicated services for individuals looking to manage or quit gambling, and stigma often prevents people from seeking help. BetBlocker's expansion into the Serbian market offers an anonymous, judgment-free way for users to take control over their gambling behaviors.

The app itself allows users to block themselves from over 85,000 gambling websites and apps, with customizable settings ranging from days to years. Importantly, once activated, the block cannot be lifted until the pre-set duration expires—helping individuals stick to their goals without temptation.

The importance of digital tools in modern harm reduction

As gambling increasingly shifts to digital platforms, the need for tech-enabled harm reduction becomes more urgent. Solutions like BetBlocker can be vital in bridging the gap between personal intent and practical enforcement, particularly in jurisdictions where legislative protections may be weak or absent.

With smartphones and the internet making gambling more accessible than ever, digital self-exclusion tools are now a cornerstone of responsible gambling strategies. Language localization, such as the Serbian version of BetBlocker, only strengthens these tools by increasing their usability and cultural relevance.

Looking ahead: Future expansion and collaboration

The success of the Serbian launch has emboldened BetBlocker’s vision for the future. The organization plans to continue adding languages to its platform, guided by data on need, user demand, and community feedback. Further partnerships with like-minded affiliates and charitable organizations are also on the horizon.

This collaboration has set a precedent for how the affiliate and charity sectors can work together to promote well-being and reduce gambling-related harm. As more organizations begin to understand the shared value in these partnerships, the potential for broader systemic change becomes more tangible.

Final thoughts

BetBlocker’s Serbian language rollout is more than just an app update; it is a strategic and compassionate effort to make help available to people who need it most—on their terms, in their language, and in a format they can use discreetly and easily. With the support of Gamblers Connect and a shared commitment to safer gambling, this initiative could serve as a blueprint for future developments in the responsible gambling space.

As gambling continues to evolve in scope and reach, the support systems must evolve with it. Efforts like this demonstrate that with innovation, collaboration, and empathy, it is possible to build tools that empower users, promote well-being, and create meaningful change in communities worldwide.

FAQs

What is BetBlocker?
BetBlocker is a free and anonymous app that allows users to block access to gambling websites and apps to help control or quit gambling.

Why was the Serbian language version created?
To provide Serbian speakers with a localized tool that supports responsible gambling and removes language barriers to support.

Who helped translate the Serbian version of BetBlocker?
Gamblers Connect provided pro bono translation services, allowing the Serbian version to be launched effectively.

How many gambling websites can BetBlocker block?
BetBlocker can block over 85,000 gambling websites and apps, with customizable restriction periods.

Is BetBlocker truly free to use?
Yes, BetBlocker is completely free and does not require users to provide personal information.

What makes BetBlocker different from other gambling blockers?
It is run by a registered charity, offers extensive blocking capabilities, and prioritizes user privacy with no personal data collection.

Can the block be turned off once activated?
No, the block cannot be lifted until the chosen restriction period ends, ensuring commitment to self-exclusion.

How many Serbian speakers can benefit from the new version?
Over 10 million Serbian speakers worldwide now have access to BetBlocker in their native language.

Is BetBlocker available in other languages?
Yes, BetBlocker continues to expand its language offerings as part of its inclusive support initiative.

What impact does this have on responsible gambling in Serbia?
It provides much-needed support in a country with limited gambling addiction resources, helping users manage their habits effectively.