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 Oregon, lotteries are generally illegal unless they are conducted by the state or certain exempt charitable organizations. The state operates the Oregon Lottery, which is the only authorized state-run lottery, offering various games of chance to the public. Charitable, nonprofit, or religious organizations may also conduct raffles or bingo games under specific regulations. Any promotional device that requires payment to participate and awards prizes by chance could be considered an illegal lottery if not operated by these entities. Individuals who encounter what they believe to be an illegal lottery disguised as a sweepstakes should report the matter to the Oregon Attorney General's consumer protection office or the local Post Office. The Attorney General's office is tasked with enforcing consumer protection laws and can investigate and take action against illegal gambling operations.