I've often wondered, we've all heard the various little contest that stores and different public places offer, like those little games at fast food places where you scratch your drink cup for a chance to win a million dollars or something.

If you look hard enough, you can win everything for a duffle bag to a new car, or more!

They all carry the same legal disclaimer "No Purchase Necessary"

I've been told the reason this is is because of various gambling laws. Apparently you are not gambling if you are not placing anything on the bet, such as money.

So I got to thinking, if "No Purchase is Necessary" to play the game, then why not just go out to various shoppes who are doing this promotions and ask for a free game piece, and take your chance. Doesn't it seem like free lottery tickets?

I wonder what would happen if I stopped at McDonalds, and just wanted a cup so I could play the game for free?

Very good questions. I have often pondered that myself. I think if no purchase is necessary its your right to go in and demand for free products... lol

Somebody needs to stand up and fight the good fight...

No purchase is necessary, but there is usually an alternate set of rules to enter such contests. Usually one has to submit an alternative entry in different way. Like for example mailing in a 3"x5" card with your name and address on it.