В России введут жесткие штрафы за незаконный майнинг криптовалюты Translated Headline: Russia to Impose Strict Fines for Illegal Cryptocurrency Mining

The Russian Ministry of Justice has proposed amendments to the Criminal Code that establish fines of up to 2.5 million rubles for illegal cryptocurrency mining activities.

This initiative aims to add to Article 171 concerning unlawful entrepreneurship.

As a result, engaging in mining operations or providing the necessary infrastructure without registration may incur a fine of up to 1.5 million rubles if «these actions have inflicted significant harm on citizens, organizations, or the state, or are linked to generating substantial income.» Additionally, offenders may face compulsory labor of up to 480 hours.

Similar actions carried out by an organized group that cause exceptionally large harm or are associated with obtaining particularly large income will be penalized with fines ranging from 500,000 rubles to 2.5 million rubles.

The legislation also stipulates potential penalties including forced labor for up to five years or imprisonment for a corresponding duration.

The document is currently undergoing public discussion and evaluation.

The primary regulation of the sector in the Russian Federation was established in July 2024. The law defined terms such as «mining,» «mining pool,» «mining infrastructure operator,» and «digital currency regulation.»

It is worth noting that from January 1, 2025, to March 15, 2031, authorities in certain regions, including Ingushetia, have imposed a ban on cryptocurrency mining and participation in pools.

On March 21, the Russian government allowed mining in these areas, provided that it involves the use of personal electricity generation and has regulatory approval.