A zero-confirmation transaction occurs when a cryptocurrency transfer happens without waiting for network miners to verify it. When a user sends coins, the transaction is broadcasted to the network and can be seen on the transaction ledger, but it isn’t yet included in a block.These transactions are considered “unconfirmed” because they lack the security and finality provided by subsequent confirmations. Miners need to validate and record transactions in blocks before they are fully accepted.While zero-confirmation transactions provide speed and convenience, especially for small transactions, they come with risks. The primary risk is that someone might double-spend the same coins before a confirmation is added. This makes it possible for a sender to attempt to reverse the transaction if it hasn’t been confirmed.For this reason, zero-confirmation transactions are best suited for low-value exchanges or scenarios where immediate settlement is important, and the parties involved are willing to accept the associated risks.