Online lottery is a form of gambling that allows players to place bets on the results of official lottery draws without taking part in those actual draws. Players simply predict the winning numbers and, if their predictions match those of the lottery draw, they win a prize equal to the value of the official jackpot. Online lottery games can be played on desktop computers, but they can also be accessed through mobile devices.

Unlike traditional lotteries, online lottery isn’t government-run; instead, private businesses act as middlemen for the actual lottery games. This means that you can play a variety of different national and international lottery games online from the comfort of your home, office, football stadium, or even a local pub. The best online lottery sites offer a wide selection of games, and they should also feature plenty of bonuses.

Some of the most popular online lottery games are keno, instant nba pick 5, and scratch-offs. These games are easy to play and can be fun for all ages. However, if you are new to online lottery, you should make sure that you choose a site with a secure betting system. This will protect your personal information and money from unauthorized third parties.

Another important consideration when choosing an online lottery is the availability of different payment options. While most online lottery sites accept standard credit and debit cards, the best ones offer a range of other options, including cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin. They should also allow you to set up a subscription, which will automatically purchase tickets for you in future draws.

One of the most popular types of lottery games in the US is Powerball, which features a massive prize pool of over $1 billion. However, if you are looking for a smaller lottery game with a lower jackpot, you may want to try out an online version of the state lottery.

Aside from state-run lotteries, there are also a number of independent online lottery websites that offer a wide range of games. Some of these websites are based in the United States, while others are available worldwide. They have a user-friendly interface and are backed by reliable customer support.

The online lottery industry is booming, and more and more states are legalizing it. The first state to do so was Illinois in 2012. In addition to state-run lottery games, these online lotteries allow residents to buy tickets for the Mega Millions and Powerball, which have prizes that can reach into the billions.

In order to play online lottery, you need a computer with a good internet connection. Most lottery sites are mobile-friendly, so they will work well on your smartphone or tablet. However, you should always check the terms and conditions of a particular website before you play. Some online lotteries require you to register, which can be a hassle.

You should also check whether the online lottery site you’re considering has a good track record with paying its winners. A good site will post its payout history on its homepage, making it easy to find. If you’re unsure of which site to trust, read reviews and testimonials from past customers.