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 Maryland, lotteries are generally illegal unless they are conducted by the state or certain exempt charitable organizations. The state operates the Maryland Lottery, offering various games of chance, and the proceeds from these games support public initiatives, including education, public health, and safety. Charitable organizations may also conduct gaming events, including raffles and bingo, provided they obtain the necessary permits and adhere to specific regulations set forth by the state. These regulations are designed to ensure that the games are fair and that the proceeds are used for charitable purposes. If an individual encounters what appears to be an illegal lottery disguised as a sweepstakes, they should report it to the Maryland Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division or the local Post Office. The Consumer Protection Division is responsible for enforcing laws that protect consumers from fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices, including illegal lotteries.