Russia Moves to Criminalize Illegal Cryptocurrency Mining
Russian authorities plan to introduce criminal penalties for illegal cryptocurrency mining, according to official proposals. The move would expand enforcement beyond administrative fines and could enable arrests and prosecutions if the draft law and implementing regulations are approved, representing a notable escalation in how the state treats unlicensed mining operations.
The development matters for miners, utilities and investors: it may push some operators to formalize or relocate and could increase scrutiny on power usage and compliance. Observers will be watching the text of the bill for details on penalty severity, thresholds of proof and enforcement priorities; those specifics will determine whether the change actually reduces illicit activity or simply displaces it to other regions or methods.