The popularity of online lottery games has been on the rise over the past few years. In the US, players can now buy tickets to state lotteries or play instant-win scratch-off games from various websites operated by licensed companies. In addition, many of these sites offer free resources to help players deal with problematic gambling habits.
The best online lotteries are licensed by reputable gaming commissions, adhere to strict regulations, and use secure payment methods. Some accept credit and debit cards, while others support pay-by-mobile solutions and eWallets. Moreover, some online lottery sites allow users to deposit using prepaid vouchers. These methods can be very convenient, but it is important to check with your bank about fees.
Besides enabling players to purchase tickets from a website, most legit online lotteries also offer other features like discounted ticket packages and a chance to win jackpot prizes. Some even provide a number of bonus offers to attract new players. When choosing an online lottery site, it is important to check its Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) for full details on how they work.
While physical lotteries have been around for centuries, it took a long time for the industry to move into the digital realm. In the past, there were several reasons why states didn’t allow players to purchase lotto tickets online, including complexities with legal matters and the challenge of ascertaining age and location. However, this landscape is changing. In 2011, the Department of Justice clarified its stance on Wire Act violations with regard to sports betting, and this helped open the door for state lotteries to sell tickets online.