There are many beliefs about the lottery that pass from person to person and end up being treated as fact. Few of them hold up under close examination. At the National Lottery of Moldova, we believe that an informed player is a protected player.

That is why we examine below the most common lottery myths and compare them with reality, in line with the principles of transparency and responsible gambling that we uphold.

Myth 1: "There are lucky numbers and unlucky numbers"

False. In every draw, all numbers have exactly the same chance of being drawn. A number that has appeared often in the past has no advantage in the future, and one that has not come up for a long time is not "due."

Every draw is an independent event — its result does not depend on previous draws. Numbers have no memory and do not influence each other.

Myth 2: "If a number hasn't come up in a long time, it's about to be drawn"

False. This idea is known as the "gambler's fallacy." The fact that a number has not been drawn for several rounds does not increase its chances in the next draw. The probability remains identical every time.

Drawing systems are built specifically to guarantee that every result is independent and random, with no connection to past history.

Myth 3: "You can improve your odds through a strategy or system"

False. There is no method, mathematical formula, or playing scheme that can change the probability of a lottery result. Systems sometimes promoted online that promise predictions or "winning" combinations have no real basis.

The lottery is a game of chance, not skill. The only thing a player can do is choose how many tickets to buy — but this does not change the random nature of the draw.

Myth 4: "Buying more tickets makes a win certain"

Partly true, but misleading. It is correct that more tickets mean more combinations and, in theory, a slightly higher probability. However, the increase is insignificant relative to the total number of possible combinations, and the cost rises in direct proportion.

Spending large amounts guarantees no win and can lead to significant losses. This is exactly the type of behaviour that the Responsible Gambling Programme flags as high-risk.

Myth 5: "The lottery is rigged; winners are chosen in advance"

False. The National Lottery of Moldova operates in a regulated environment, under Law No. 291/2016 on the organisation and conduct of gambling, and functions under a state monopoly. Fairness is guaranteed through several mechanisms:

• Draws and gaming platforms follow strict procedures

• Operations are subject to internal control and audit

• Transparency in the operation of gambling is a core value of the Company

• The process is designed to be clear and fair for all players

Myth 6: "Big winners always stay wealthy"

False. A major win does not guarantee long-term financial stability. Without responsible money management, winnings can be spent quickly. The lottery should be seen as a form of entertainment, not a source of income or a solution to financial problems.

Myth 7: "A recent win means a place or game is 'paying out' more"

False. Neither the place where a ticket was bought nor a particular game influences future results. Every draw or round is independent. The fact that a win was recorded somewhere has no connection to the odds for the next players.

Myth 8: "The lottery has nothing to do with the public good"

False. At the National Lottery of Moldova, the revenue generated contributes to the state budget and supports social projects. Economic contribution is one of the Company's strategic objectives, alongside ensuring a safe and responsible gaming environment.

Myths and reality, in brief

What players should remember

The conclusion is simple: the lottery is a game based entirely on chance. Results are random, independent, and impossible to predict through strategies or systems. Any promise of a guaranteed win is false. A few practical rules you can follow:

• Treat the lottery as a form of entertainment, not a source of income

• Set a clear budget before playing and stick to it

• Do not try to recover losses by playing more

• Ask for support if you feel you are losing control

If you feel you are losing control of your gambling, the Responsible Gambling Programme offers real support through free assistance, online self-testing, and sessions with specialists. You can reach out at any time by calling +373 78875555 or by emailing jocresponsabil@lnm.md for support and assistance.

A fair game starts with accurate information. At the National Lottery of Moldova, we take responsibility for providing it.

High-risk gambling games such as slots are intended exclusively for people aged 21 and over, while lower-risk games such as lotto and betting are for people aged 18 and over. Treat the game as a form of entertainment, set a clear budget in advance, and stick to it whatever the result.