Three Illegal Crypto Mining Farms Shut Down in Kaluga

Investigators in Russia’s Kaluga region uncovered three illegal cryptocurrency mining farms operating at an industrial enterprise. The damage exceeded 1 million rubles.

Employees set up secret mining farms at industrial site

The Investigative Committee of the Kaluga Region has opened a criminal case over the illegal organization of cryptocurrency mining operations. According to investigators, two employees of a local industrial enterprise installed three mining farms on company property between May and September 2025.

The unauthorized use of electricity caused a significant increase in power consumption and financial losses exceeding 1 million rubles. Officials noted that the miners concealed their activity from management and used the company’s energy infrastructure for personal gain.

Equipment seized and criminal charges filed

During the investigation, law enforcement officers searched the site and suspects’ homes.
They seized all mining equipment, computers, and communication devices used in the illegal operations.

A criminal case was initiated under Article 165, Part 2 (a) of the Russian Criminal Code — causing property damage by deception committed by a group of individuals. The suspects are currently under investigation, and the confiscated devices will undergo a technical examination.

Illegal crypto mining spreads across Russian regions

Experts note that illegal crypto mining at industrial enterprises has become increasingly common in Russia. Many individuals exploit low-cost electricity and access to grid connections to reduce mining costs.

However, these activities cause significant losses to companies and power suppliers. Authorities continue tightening oversight of energy use and are discussing legislative measures to regulate and legalize mining, aiming to prevent similar crimes in the future.