Unfettered gambling access would be disastrous. Picture teenagers with unlimited access to online casinos, squandering their future on a whim. Without age restrictions, gambling addiction could take root, causing immense social and financial hardship.
Furthermore, a lawless gambling landscape would be a haven for criminal activity. Imagine illegal gambling dens operating with impunity, laundering money and fostering a culture of crime. This is not the kind of playground anyone wants.
Laws, however, are not a silver bullet. Even with regulations, there will always be those who try to exploit the system. But a strong legal framework can act as a deterrent, making it harder for bad actors to thrive.