Russian Authorities Uncover Widespread Crypto Mining Illegality

Russian authorities have made significant progress in cracking down on illegal crypto mining activities, with over 8,000 suspected locations identified in the Irkutsk region.

The power provider, Irkutskenergosbyt, has created a map of these locations and is using artificial intelligence to track down illicit miners. According to reports, many miners are disguising their activities as legitimate uses of electricity, such as electric car charging or heating chicken coops.

One notable case involved a resident who claimed they were drying wood for a house project, despite the property being empty. This individual is alleged to have 'dried' over $12,000 worth of electricity.