Online lottery is a form of gambling that allows players to place bets on different lottery games. This type of gaming has led to an increase in lottery sales worldwide, and is fueled by intensified internet penetration and improved betting processes.
Currently, seven US states offer online lottery games, including Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, New Hampshire, and Pennsylvania. These sites use geolocation technology to ensure that players are within state lines when making a purchase.
The legality of online lottery in the United States is largely dependent on state-specific laws and regulations. However, the federal government does not prohibit American residents from purchasing lottery tickets online through licensed and regulated online lottery messenger services or agents. Illinois was the first US state to offer a legal and fully-functioning online lottery, followed by Georgia and New Hampshire. Several other states participate in the multi-state games of Powerball and MegaMillions,