California Lottery warns retailers to avoid selling tickets to illegal online couriers or risk contract termination

The California Lottery has issued a warning to its network of retail partners, comprising over 23,000 locations statewide, regarding the risks associated with selling lottery tickets to online lottery couriers. These couriers operate through websites or mobile apps, offering services to order California Lottery tickets on behalf of customers.

In a directive sent out recently, Carolyn Becker, spokesperson for the California Lottery, noted the legal implications for retailers who engage in such transactions. "Online lottery ticket courier services are illegal in California," Becker stated.

Any retail partner found selling tickets to these online couriers, their employees, agents, or contractors may face contract termination.

Becker emphasized the Lottery's commitment to maintaining the integrity of the gaming process and protecting consumers from unregulated activities. "We are thankful for the support of our retail partners in helping our customers play safely, rather than exchanging money with a third-party, unregulated business," she added.

Moreover, Becker clarified the significant consequences for players who use online couriers to purchase tickets. "Any California Lottery player who buys their games through an online courier is not eligible to win," she confirmed. This restriction stems from the illegality of such services, which prohibits the Lottery from awarding prizes on tickets acquired through unauthorized digital platforms.

Additionally, the California Lottery emphasized that retailer bonuses would not be paid out if the winning ticket was found to have been sold via an online courier service.