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Punjab State Lottery • Results • Guides

How to Avoid Punjab Lottery Scams

Punjab State Lottery is legal, but fraudsters often misuse the brand. This guide explains the common scams around Lottery Punjab, how to spot fake sellers, buying & verification safety, and how to report illegal activity.

Avoid Lottery Scams
⚠️ Important: Punjab State Lotteries Directorate has banned sale of tickets via websites, WhatsApp, Telegram, or social media. Only buy physical tickets from authorised retailers listed in verified directories.

Common Lottery Scams to Watch For

Fake Online Ticket Sellers

Websites or apps that claim to sell Punjab Lottery tickets digitally — these are illegal and unsafe.

WhatsApp / Telegram Booking Scams

Agents ask you to pay via messaging apps and promise to deliver tickets later — often they never deliver or give fake tickets.

Advance-fee / Processing Fee Scams

Scammers demand money up front for “processing” or “tax” before releasing the prize — government never asks such fees by phone.

Fake Result Websites

Websites posting manipulated results to confuse players — always cross-check with official draw PDFs and trusted portals.

Counterfeit Physical Tickets

Duplicate or reprinted tickets that look real. Without original security marks they may be rejected at claim time.

Social Media Prize Claims

Messages claiming you won big and instructing you to call or pay a fee. These are almost always fraudulent.

Steps to Stay Safe — Practical Checklist

  1. Buy only from authorised physical sellers. Use verified directories such as PunjabLotterySellers.com or our Verified Sellers page.
  2. Never buy tickets online, via WhatsApp or social media. The Directorate has banned online sales; such offers are illegal.
  3. Refuse advance fee requests. Do not pay processing or booking fees to unknown agents.
  4. Check the ticket carefully before leaving. Verify series, number, print quality and ask for a receipt if available.
  5. Sign the back of the ticket immediately. This establishes ownership and helps prevent theft.
  6. Verify results only from trusted sources. Use the official draw PDF or trusted portals: PunjabiLottery.com/results and PunjabLotteryResult.com.
  7. Do not share full ticket images publicly. If you must show proof, obscure the number/series and never share the barcode.
  8. Be wary of unsolicited calls or messages. Government bodies do not call winners demanding payment or bank details.
  9. Report suspicious activity immediately. Save messages/screenshots and report to the Directorate and local police.
  10. Keep originals safe and make photocopies. Keep copies of ticket, ID and submission receipts for claims.

Trusted Resources & Where to Verify

Find a Verified Seller →

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if a seller is genuine? +
A genuine seller will have a visible agency license, sell only physical tickets, and be listed in trusted directories like PunjabLotterySellers.com. Avoid sellers that insist on online bookings.
Is it illegal to sell tickets via WhatsApp or websites? +
Yes. The Punjab State Lotteries Directorate has prohibited sale of tickets through websites, WhatsApp, Telegram, or social media. These practices are illegal and risky.
What should I do if someone says I've won and asks for money? +
Do not pay. Government lotteries never request money to release prizes. Collect evidence and report the incident to local police and the Directorate.
Can fake websites publish real-looking results? +
Yes. Fake sites often copy or manipulate results. Always cross-check with the official draw PDF and trusted portals such as PunjabiLottery.com and PunjabLotteryResult.com.
What proof do I need to claim a prize? +
You must have the original ticket, valid government ID, passport-size photos, bank proof (cancelled cheque), and a filled claim form. Digital copies are not substitutes for the original ticket.
Are screenshots of tickets accepted? +
No. Screenshots or photos are not acceptable as proof for prize claims — the original paper ticket is required.
Can I buy a ticket for someone else? +
Yes — but ensure the ticket is handed over and signed by the buyer. If a claim is made by another person, additional authorization documents may be required.
How do I report an illegal seller? +
Save all evidence (screenshots, messages, receipts) and report to the Directorate of Punjab State Lotteries and your local police. Include web links or phone numbers used by the seller.
Can an agent sell multiple copies of the same ticket? +
In legitimate operations, each printed ticket is unique. Multiple copies of a ticket number indicate fraud or duplication and should be reported immediately.
Should I trust messages claiming 'secret draws' or early results? +
No. Only official draw times and official draw sheets are valid. Any message claiming secret or early results is likely fraudulent.
Is it OK to use an online escrow service to buy tickets? +
No. Buying tickets through online escrow or intermediaries is unsafe and usually violates Punjab Lottery rules. Always buy physical tickets from authorised sellers.
What immediate actions should I take if I suspect fraud? +
Stop all communication, preserve evidence (messages, receipts), block the contact, and report to the Directorate and police. Check your bank/transaction logs if you shared payment.