Overview
- Russia’s Ministry of Justice published draft Criminal Code Article 171.6 on December 30 targeting unlawful digital-currency mining and unauthorized mining infrastructure operations, with the proposal now in public review and a completion target in 2026.
- Base offenses carry fines up to 1.5 million rubles, compulsory labor up to 480 hours or forced labor up to two years, while aggravated cases can bring fines up to 2.5 million rubles or imprisonment for up to five years.
- The draft ties liability to income thresholds, applying at 3.5 million rubles for basic cases and at 13.5 million rubles for especially large-scale or organized activity.
- Since November 1, 2024, mining entities must register with the Federal Tax Service and file monthly reports, with private users under 6,000 kWh exempt; officials say only about 30% have complied.
- Authorities cite grid losses and theft as key drivers, including 35.4 million kWh stolen in Ingushetia in the first half of 2025, and reports indicate some related intermediary activity could be prosecuted starting July 1, 2027.