Online lottery is a form of gambling where players can play a game for a chance to win a prize. This type of gambling can be done using a variety of devices, including desktop computers and mobile phones. The most common types of online lottery games include the lotto, quiz-type lotteries, numbers games, and scratch-off instant games. Many people have started to use these games because they are more convenient than traditional ones.

The legality of online lottery in the United States can vary by state, but all sites must be licensed and regulated by a gambling authority. In addition, players must be of legal age to play, which can usually be verified through a state-issued ID card or driver’s license. Nevertheless, the responsibility for responsible playing remains with the player, so it is important to set limits on spending and know when to stop.

Until recently, most lottery tickets were purchased from brick-and-mortar retail locations. However, more and more states are offering their residents the option to purchase online lottery tickets. This trend has been driven by the increased adoption of smartphones and other connected devices, which have made it easier to access and manage lottery-related content.

Some experts are concerned that online lottery will cannibalize retail ticket sales. This is a legitimate concern, but the impact of online lottery has so far been minimal. In fact, some states have even seen an increase in retail ticket sales as a result of their online offerings.