When you play an online lottery, there are a few important things to keep in mind. For one, you want to ensure that the site is regulated by your state’s gaming authority. This will protect you from scammers who are only out to make a quick buck and don’t care about your experience. Another thing to look for is a secure website that uses SSL encryption and password protection to ensure your personal information stays safe.

While the idea of buying lottery tickets online is still somewhat new, it is becoming more and more popular. This is mainly because of the convenience that it offers. In addition, many state lotteries offer a mobile app that lets players buy tickets and check results. These apps can be accessed from any computer or mobile device. In addition, some state lotteries also offer online-only games, such as scratchcards or keno.

Currently, only about half of all US states offer some form of online lottery. Some have their own official lottery websites, while others rely on third-party providers to sell tickets. The latter option, known as a lottery agent, connects customers with agents in their state who purchase tickets on their behalf. These tickets are then uploaded to a secure database, where winnings can be claimed. However, a drawback to these services is that they can add on extra fees, which drives up the price of lottery tickets.