Lotteries are a type of gambling where players purchase tickets for a chance to win a prize. The prizes can range from cash to goods and services. Some state governments regulate the lottery. Others do not. In the United States, there are two types of lotteries: state and multi-jurisdictional. State lotteries are only available to play within a specific state’s borders, while multi-jurisdictional lottery games are available to play anywhere in the country. In addition, some states offer subscriptions, which allow players to purchase tickets on a recurring basis.

Lottery games are also played in many countries. The first recorded lotteries were held in the Low Countries in the 15th century to raise funds for town fortifications and help poor people. A record dated 9 May 1445 at L’Ecluse mentions the sale of lottery tickets for prizes of up to 1737 florins (worth about US$170,000 in 2014).

While lottery opponents have valid concerns about problem gambling and the search for new revenue sources, cannibalization is not one of them. In fact, online lotteries have actually helped boost traditional sales in many states.

The PA iLottery app gives Pennsylvania residents the ability to play official state lottery games from their mobile devices. Players can choose to play daily games with lower jackpots, Powerball and Mega Millions or select the ePlaySlip feature, which allows players to use their smartphones to scan and purchase tickets at participating retailers without having to fill out a paper ticket. Msg & data rates apply.