Russian authorities busted an illegal mobile crypto mining operation, highlighting energy theft concerns
From Cointelegraph
June 27, 2025 10:45 AM:
Russian authorities discovered an illegal mobile cryptocurrency mining operation in the Republic of Buryatia, with a truck containing 95 mining rigs and a mobile transformer station drawing enough electricity for a small village. This is the sixth such case in Buryatia in 2025, reflecting a growing trend of unauthorized mining using mobile setups to bypass restrictions and avoid electricity costs.
Russia has implemented seasonal and regional bans on cryptocurrency mining to combat energy theft and grid instability. Buryatia enforces a ban from Nov. 15 to March 15 annually to protect energy supplies during winter, with only registered companies allowed to mine in designated areas outside this period. Similar restrictions apply in other regions, aiming to prevent energy misuse while maintaining grid stability.
BitRiver, a legal mining company in Irkutsk, operates compliantly with local hydroelectric power, setting an example of regulated industrial mining. The largest crypto mining facility in the region, BitRiver aligns with government goals for a regulated industry supporting innovation while protecting energy stability through renewable sources. This contrasts with illegal mining operations straining regional power networks.
Digital energy theft in Russia has evolved, with hacker groups like Librarian Ghouls targeting users to mine cryptocurrency using compromised devices. These groups use phishing emails to install malware that mines crypto during off-hours to avoid detection. Hundreds of devices have been affected by this advanced attack, emphasizing the need for stronger cybersecurity measures and increased awareness.
Cryptojacking poses challenges for Russia’s crypto landscape, straining energy stability and regulatory enforcement. Unauthorized activities secretly use large amounts of electricity for mining, disrupting energy planning and putting pressure on regional power grids. Cryptojackers use creative methods to evade law enforcement, complicating efforts to regulate the industry and foster innovation while combating illegal activities.
Read more at Cointelegraph: How Russian miners built a mobile crypto farm and got busted