Online lottery is a form of gambling where players can participate in lotteries from around the world. They can choose their numbers and buy tickets online in seconds, allowing them to play the big jackpots without having to visit a brick-and-mortar gaming parlor. Online lottery sites are also a great option for those who want to take part in US lotteries but do not live there.

Most lottery games are regulated by the state or country that runs them, meaning they adhere to stringent rules and cannot be rigged. However, independent lottery betting websites are not regulated by a central authority and can be susceptible to being rigged by malicious individuals. This is why it is important to check for licenses and security measures before playing.

A good lottery site will offer a variety of payment methods, and should be secure with SSL encryption software to protect your personal information. It should also have a dedicated customer support team available to help with any problems or questions you may have. Additionally, the best lottery sites will provide a range of promotions and games, including scratchcards, keno, raffles, discount tickets, and lottery syndicates.

The legal status of lottery sites varies by state, with some states prohibiting them altogether and others permitting only official government-run platforms. Use the interactive map below to find out which lottery games are available in your state and whether or not you can buy tickets online.