Unlike traditional lotteries, online lotteries are run through websites, which host and draw the winning numbers for the lottery games. The websites, which are operated by lottery providers, provide an avenue for online lottery players to purchase tickets and win prizes. These online lotteries are generally identical in game play and ticket purchase, except for the fact that they are hosted on the web.

Online lottery sales are legal in the US provided that they are conducted within the boundaries of the state. The UIGEA does not prevent online lottery sales, but it does prevent some states from conducting them. For instance, in Illinois, online lotteries are limited to daily games and jackpot games. However, online lottery players can play games such as Mega Millions and Fantasy 5 from any location, regardless of the time zone.

The popularity of online lottery games is increasing worldwide. With the growing use of smartphones and high internet penetration, the global online lottery market is predicted to grow at a 14.9% CAGR through 2022. This growth is partly due to the growth of the mobile lottery market, which is expected to surpass desktop lottery market growth. Further, mobile lottery apps allow lottery players to play lottery games at their convenience. Rapid expansion of internet facilities is another factor driving the demand for online lottery tickets.

Online lottery games are easier to play and faster. In addition, playing lottery online allows players to do it from the comfort of their homes. The main differences between lottery online games and traditional lotteries are the prize payouts and rules of the game.