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 West Virginia (WV), lotteries are generally considered illegal gambling unless they are conducted by the state or certain exempt charitable organizations. The state operates the West Virginia Lottery, which is a legal form of gambling that includes various games such as scratch-offs, daily drawings, and multi-state lottery games. Charitable organizations may also be permitted to conduct lotteries if they comply with specific regulations and obtain the necessary licenses. These regulations are designed to ensure that the games are fair and that the proceeds are used for lawful purposes. If an individual in WV encounters what they believe to be an illegal lottery disguised as a sweepstakes, they are encouraged to report it to the local Post Office or the West Virginia Attorney General's consumer protection office. The Attorney General's office is responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws and can take action against illegal gambling operations.