Illegal crypto mining farm with 10,000 units found in Russia

Authorities in Russia have uncovered an illegal cryptocurrency mining operation with 10,000 units across two cities in the Ural region, local media outlet Bits reported. The mining equipment was concealed within industrial facilities and illegally consumed more than double the permitted amount of electricity by tampering with power meters. The operation resulted in approximately 1 billion rubles ($13.89 million) in damages and caused power outages in nearby areas. Authorities have arrested three suspects in connection with the farm. The outlet noted that crackdowns are ongoing, with smaller mining farms recently discovered in other parts of Russia. Previously, Russian authorities had recommended a ban on cryptocurrency mining in certain regions.