Overview
- The Ministry of Justice published draft Criminal Code Article 171.6 on December 30 targeting unlawful digital currency mining and unauthorized mining infrastructure.
- Penalties follow a two‑tier structure: fines up to 1.5 million rubles, up to 480 hours of compulsory labor, or up to two years of forced labor for basic offenses.
- Aggravated cases tied to organized groups or income above 13.5 million rubles carry fines up to 2.5 million rubles and up to five years of forced labor or imprisonment, with possible additional fines.
- Russia legalized mining in 2024 with Federal Tax Service registration and monthly reporting, exempting private users under 6,000 kWh per month; only about 30% have registered, with roughly 1,000–1,364 entities listed.
- The draft is under public review, officials expect the legal framework to be completed by July 1, 2026, and reporting indicates some prosecution phases could begin July 1, 2027, as authorities cite grid strain, regional bans, seizures, and large power theft losses.