Sizekhaya urges South African Lotto players to protect prize claims after US$1.2m jackpot win
Operator issues player protection guidance on securing retail tickets, digital accounts and prize claims following Lotto jackpot win.
South Africa.- South Africa’s Sizekhaya has called on Lotto players to protect their prize claims by signing retail tickets and securing digital lottery accounts following a R20m Lotto jackpot win.
The operator issued player protection guidance on July 29 after a single player won the R20,082,438.90 (US$1.2m) Lotto jackpot in the July 22 draw with a ticket purchased through the FNB banking app, according to The South African.
The guidance urged players who purchase tickets at retail outlets to write their name and signature on the back of the ticket immediately after purchase. Players were also advised to keep tickets in a safe place, avoid damaging them and check results through official National Lottery channels before claiming prizes.
For digital players, tickets purchased online or through participating banking apps are linked directly to a registered account rather than a physical ticket. Sizekhaya urged players to use strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication where available, and keep their email addresses and mobile numbers up to date to protect their accounts and ensure they receive prize notifications and can complete the claims process without delay.
For online winners, prizes of up to R249,999 (US$15,000) can be paid through the online channel using one of two payment methods, with payouts processed within 72 working hours. Winners can receive their prize via an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) from a Sizekhaya iLottery Wallet. If the ticket was purchased through a participating banking app, winnings are paid directly into the player’s bank account.
Sizekhaya also allows winners who purchased Lotto tickets online or at retail outlets to claim their prizes at its offices, where payments are made electronically. The operator reminded players to check their tickets or digital lottery accounts after every draw and to claim their prizes within 365 days of the draw date, after which unclaimed winnings expire in line with National Lottery rules.
Sizekhaya assumed operation of South Africa’s National Lottery on June 1 under an eight-year licence. On June 24, the operator resumed prize claims for winning tickets purchased before the handover after completing verification of historical records.
