Unlike a sweepstakes, a lottery is a promotional device by which items of value (prizes) are awarded to members of the public by chance—but some form of payment is required to participate. Lotteries are illegal, except when conducted by states and certain exempt charitable organizations. If you believe you have received a solicitation characterized as a sweepstakes that is in fact an illegal lottery, you should contact your local Post Office or state Attorney General’s consumer protection office.
In Colorado, lotteries are generally illegal unless they are conducted by the state or certain exempt charitable organizations. The state operates the Colorado Lottery, which includes games like Powerball and Mega Millions, and the proceeds are used to fund various state projects, including outdoor recreation and conservation projects. Charitable organizations can also conduct lotteries if they comply with specific regulations set forth by the state. These regulations include obtaining necessary licenses and ensuring that the proceeds are used for charitable purposes. If an individual in Colorado encounters what they believe to be an illegal lottery disguised as a sweepstakes, they should report it to the Colorado Attorney General's Office, specifically to the consumer protection section, or to their local Post Office. The Attorney General's Office is responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws and can take action against illegal gambling operations.