Betting without a license poses several significant risks, both legal and financial. Engaging in unlicensed betting can lead to potential legal consequences, including fines or criminal charges, depending on the jurisdiction. Moreover, bettors are exposed to a lack of consumer protection, meaning they may not have recourse in the event of fraud or disputes over payouts. The absence of regulation increases the likelihood of encountering unreliable or dishonest operators, leaving bettors vulnerable to scams.