It wasn’t (only) that, though; they also learned, so that, when people could afford to buy computers that were really useful, there were people who could write useful programs, administer them, etc.
Same thing with 3D printers a decade or so ago. What did people use them for? Mostly tinkering with hard- and software for days to finally get them to print some teapot or rabbit they didn’t need or another 3D printer.
This _may_ be similar, with OpenClaw-like setups eventually getting really useful and safe enough for mere mortals.
But yes, the risks are way larger than in those cases.
Also, I think there are safer ways to gain the necessary expertise.