Russia Cracks Down on Electricity Theft for Illegal Crypto Mining

Russian authorities in Ingushetia have uncovered 177 cases of electricity theft in the first half of 2025, totaling 37.5 million kilowatt-hours. The regional power grid suffered damages exceeding 356 million roubles, with 94% of the stolen energy traced to four illegal cryptocurrency mining operations.

Over 450 mining units were seized in towns including Nazran, Karabulak, Sunzha, and Kantyshevo. Officials warn that unauthorized power connections for mining threaten regional energy security, causing grid overloads, voltage drops, and outages for residents.

Rosseti North Caucasus emphasizes the need for collaboration between utilities, law enforcement, and communities to address the issue. Ingushenergo has launched inspections, equipment upgrades, and public awareness campaigns about penalties for energy theft.

Russia has banned cryptocurrency mining in Ingushetia from January 2025 to March 2031, part of broader prohibitory measures across ten regions.