Well assuming what you just said, is true, of course giving out loans is risky. It's like you gamble with your money in order to get 1 or 2% on top of it either in short or long terms and with the tendency of losing your money in case the guy who got the loan, doesn't return it. You could by some mining equipment's and contribute to the network as well and see the long term profit if you could manage and balance everything well.
Yes, when have your money lend it really is risky. The risk is much more doubled if you are not so familiar with the person borrowing you. I agree, it can be compared to gambling, if lucky enough you could gain but if not you might lose all including your capital.
Agree with the idea of not lending money to family or best friends if the use of lending money is to make money. Often times you feel bad, or you'll forgive them resulting in you losing money or friendship. Choose wisely it's a risky thing to do.