Texas lottery officials have banned the use of third-party courier apps after launching an investigation into the legitimacy of an $83.5 million winning ticket purchased through one such service.
The probe began after a player in Austin won the jackpot using Jackpocket, a popular lottery courier app. These apps allow users to buy lottery tickets online. A courier then purchases the ticket on the user’s behalf and delivers it if it wins. Jackpocket, along with Lotto.com and The Lotter, is one of the largest services offering this option.
The Texas Lottery Commission announced the ban following a hearing on Monday. Officials raised concerns that the use of unregulated third-party services could be illegal and potentially fraudulent.
“At best, the lottery commissioners were deliberately indifferent,” said State Senator Bob Hall during the hearing. “At worst, they’re co-conspirators in the vastest financial crime since Enron.”
Currently, only New York and New Jersey regulate lottery couriers. However, these services operate in 17 other states and the District of Columbia without official oversight.
In response to the ban, Jackpocket—owned by DraftKings—confirmed it has suspended operations in Texas. “Despite our proven track record of compliance and commitment to responsible gaming, the Texas Lottery Commission has issued a new policy prohibiting our services, effective immediately,” a DraftKings spokesperson said.
The company also expressed hope of working with state officials to establish proper regulations and resume services.
The investigation into lottery couriers was supported by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who pushed for tighter controls on these platforms.
Meanwhile, separate from the Texas probe, lottery officials across the U.S. are encouraging winners to come forward. A $1 million Powerball ticket was recently sold in Michigan, and another player is yet to claim a $3 million prize from a $30 scratch-off game.
