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 New York, lotteries are generally illegal unless they are conducted by the state government or certain authorized charitable organizations. The New York State Constitution prohibits gambling, except for state-run lottery games, pari-mutuel betting on horse races, and certain types of charitable gaming. The New York State Gaming Commission regulates legal gaming activities and ensures compliance with the law. If an individual encounters what appears to be an illegal lottery, where participation requires payment and prizes are awarded by chance, they should report it to the New York State Attorney General's office, specifically the Consumer Frauds and Protection Bureau, 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.