How to Run a Fair Online Giveaway

A fair giveaway has clear rules, clean entries, a transparent draw and a record you can show. This checklist walks you through each step.

1. Write the rules first

  • How to enter (e.g. follow + comment), and whether multiple entries count.
  • Start and end date and time, with time zone.
  • Number of winners and exactly what they win.
  • Who can enter (age, countries) and how winners are contacted.
  • A line saying the platform does not sponsor the giveaway, if the platform requires it.

2. Collect and clean the entries

After the deadline, export or copy the entries. Remove duplicates (one click with “Remove duplicates”), fake accounts and anyone who broke the rules. Do this before the draw, never after.

3. Make the draw transparent

  1. Paste entries into the prize wheel; add *n for extra entries if your rules allow it.
  2. Post or screenshot the “Next spin commitment” hash.
  3. Set winners per spin to the number of prizes (plus runners-up).
  4. Record the screen while you spin.
  5. Export the results and share the seed.

4. Contact winners safely

Announce winners publicly and message them from your official account. Never ask for passwords or payment; scammers often copy giveaway accounts, so warn your followers.

5. Keep records

Keep the entry list, the exported results and the recording for a few months in case anyone asks.

Frequently asked questions

How do I pick a random winner from comments?

Copy the usernames of eligible commenters into the prize wheel (one per line), remove duplicates, then spin on camera and share the fairness proof.

Do I need a licence for a giveaway?

Free-to-enter giveaways usually do not, but paid raffles and lotteries are regulated in many countries. Check your local rules and the platform’s promotion guidelines.

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Written and tested by · Editorial Team · Last updated