The online lottery is a game of chance in which players win money or prizes by matching numbers or symbols drawn from a fixed list. These games are usually run by private businesses or government agencies and are connected to a central computer via a communications network. They can be played from any device with an Internet connection and are available in many countries worldwide. These games are similar to other types of gambling, such as the casino or sports betting, but differ in terms of rules and payouts.

The best online lottery websites are regulated by gambling commissions and offer a wide range of games. They also provide information on how to protect your personal details. In addition, they make it easy to find your winning tickets and claim them in a timely manner. Some even provide a live chat option to help you get in touch with a customer service representative.

Online lottery has become a popular way for people to play lotteries. In the past, people would buy physical lottery tickets from stores or other vendors and then wait until the results were announced. Now, they can play lottery games from their computers or smartphones. This type of lottery is more convenient than ever, and it has become more accessible to people with different ages and incomes.

Most states have some kind of online lottery, although the rules and regulations vary. Some have their own online lottery services, while others partner with national lottery operators to sell their games. In the US, you can find state-specific games like Illinois’ iLottery and Powerball, as well as national offerings like Mega Millions and EuroJackpot. If you’re unsure which lottery site to choose, read the reviews and look for an About or FAQ page.

You can also purchase a ticket through an online lottery agent, which acts as a middleman between you and the official lottery website. These sites typically charge a small fee to purchase the ticket on your behalf and scan it. They may also offer other services, such as a concierge, to help you with your ticket-buying needs.

The best online lotteries allow you to play a variety of games, including match-style and instant win games. Most offer quick how-to’s and tutorials, so you can learn more about the rules of each game before you start playing. Some even have a community where you can ask questions and interact with other users.

The Illinois Lottery offers both online lottery and mobile apps. To play, log into your account and select the game of your choice from the Games Hub. You can then deposit funds using your Visa, Mastercard, or Discover card in the Deposit Funds section of your wallet. Once you’ve deposited the amount needed, click Play to begin. You can also view your recent purchases and current jackpots from the same window.