Risk: High

Crypto mining can be a risky side hustle for beginners starting from scratch, especially if they can't afford to lose money. The main potential losses include money invested in equipment, time spent learning and setting up the mining operation, energy costs, and a possible hit to confidence if returns are low. Beginners have been known to spend money on equipment and not see significant returns due to increasing mining difficulty and market fluctuations. Startup costs for crypto mining can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, including purchasing specialized hardware and covering electricity expenses. Online discussions often highlight stories of individuals failing or losing money in crypto mining ventures. I'd rate the risk a 1 out of 3 because of the significant financial investment required, the volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, and the technical expertise needed to succeed.