Editorial note: this guide is general information about how competitions, lotteries and gambling work in the UK. It is not advice, and it does not describe any specific promotion offered by Fortune Games. Rules, prices and regulations can change, so always check the operator’s current terms.
What is an auto-draw competition?
An auto-draw competition picks the winner automatically using a certified random number generator at the moment entries close, rather than through a live, hand-operated draw. Each entry gets a number, the system selects one at random, and the result is recorded — fast, neutral and not influenced by the operator.
How auto-draws work
When you enter, you are assigned a unique ticket number. As soon as the competition reaches its closing time or sells out, software using a random number generator selects a winning number from all valid entries, including any free postal entries. The operator then contacts the winner and usually records or timestamps the result so it can be checked.
Auto-draw versus live draw
A live draw is streamed so viewers can watch the selection happen; an auto-draw happens instantly in software and is published afterwards. Both can be equally fair — what matters is whether the selection is genuinely random and properly recorded. Auto-draws suit sites running many competitions or instant-win formats, where streaming every draw would be impractical, and they remove any chance of human interference.
Is it fair?
A properly built auto-draw is fair because the random number generator gives every entry an equal chance and the operator cannot pick a favourite. The things to check are that the draw covers all entries (paid and free) equally, that results are logged, and that winners are published. As with any competition, look for a clear winners history and transparent terms before you enter.
Frequently asked questions
Is a random number generator fair?
Yes, when it is properly built and tested. A random number generator gives every entry an equal chance and cannot be steered towards a particular person, which is what makes auto-draws neutral.
Why do operators use auto-draws?
They are quick, scale well across many competitions and instant-win games, and remove any possibility of human bias. For sites running frequent draws, streaming each one live would be impractical.
Can I watch an auto-draw happen?
Not in the way you watch a live draw, because it runs in software in an instant. Reputable operators record or timestamp the result and publish the winner so it can be verified.
How will I know if I have won an auto-draw?
The operator contacts winners directly, usually by email or phone, and often lists them on a winners page. Keep your contact details up to date so you do not miss a notification.
Related guides: What is a random number generator? · How winners are chosen · Are competition winners real?
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