Online lottery is a type of gambling wherein players place bets on lotteries through the internet. It is a highly profitable business and has been growing in popularity with the advent of social media and smartphones. The global online lottery market is forecast to reach $17 billion by 2025, according to a new report from MarketsandMarkets.

The best online lottery sites allow players to choose their numbers, buy tickets and compare jackpots and odds from any location with an internet connection. They also offer mobile apps for convenient access on the go. This is a huge advantage for those who live far from the nearest brick-and-mortar shops, or those who are unable to make it out in person to the state lottery office.

However, players should be aware that these companies do add on a bit of an extra cost to the ticket price. They do this by charging a small commission for the convenience they offer. It’s understandable that they need to turn a profit for their services, but there is a fine line between this and gouging their customers.

Legitimate online lottery sites are heavily regulated by gaming commissions, and their licensing details should be clearly visible on the site. They will also use reputable payment methods and offer secure, password-protected accounts. In addition, they will offer excellent customer service. This can be a great way to tell if the company is worth your business. Look for a customer support department that is accessible day or night via phone, email or chat.