Online lottery offers a convenient and secure way for players to buy entries to official state lotteries. The industry is growing rapidly due to the increased internet penetration and improved betting process, as well as an increased number of draw-based games and scratch-based instant games. However, some online lottery sites add on extra fees that make ticket prices higher than those found in brick-and-mortar shops. These extra fees are the site’s profit margin, and should be taken into account when deciding which online lottery website to use.

The best online lottery sites will offer a variety of different games and promotions. They should also accept safe, reputable payment methods like Visa, MasterCard, and PayPal. They will also have security measures in place to protect daily transactions from malicious prying eyes. Finally, they will be licensed and regulated by a reputable gambling authority.

Online lottery games are available in 44 states and the District of Columbia. They include both state-specific games, such as the Oregon Megabucks and the Pennsylvania Keystone Cash, as well as national games, including Powerball and Mega Millions.

While there are some valid concerns about problem gambling and cannibalization, data shows that online lottery has had no impact on traditional game sales. In fact, since PA iLottery launched in 2018, traditional game sales have continued to grow.