Authorities in Buryatia have uncovered an illegal cryptocurrency mining operation hidden inside a truck, which has been siphoning electricity intended for local residents. This incident has highlighted ongoing issues related to electricity theft for crypto mining.
Discovery of Truck-Based Mining Operation
During a routine inspection of power lines in the Pribaikalsky District of Buryatia, 95 mining rigs were discovered inside a KamAZ truck. The operation was illegally drawing electricity from a 10-kilovolt line, sufficient to supply a small village. Two individuals believed to be connected to the operation fled the scene in an SUV before police arrived.
Mining Ban in Buryatia
Mining is prohibited across most of Buryatia from November 15 to March 15 due to regional energy shortages. Outside this window, legal mining is only allowed for registered companies in designated districts. This incident marks the sixth case of electricity theft associated with crypto mining in the region since the beginning of the year.
Cyber Threat: Hackers Engaging in Crypto Mining
The hacker group known as 'Librarian Ghouls' or 'Rare Werewolf' is linked to a cryptojacking campaign that has compromised hundreds of Russian devices. By using phishing emails, they spread malware that allows unauthorized control of systems for crypto mining. The malware disables Windows Defender and schedules operations between 1 am and 5 am to avoid detection, enabling hackers to establish remote access and steal credentials.
The situation regarding illegal crypto mining in Buryatia and associated cyber threats underscores significant issues related to electricity theft and digital security in the region. Authorities continue efforts to combat illegal mining operations and the repercussions they entail.
