95% Of Iran's 427,000 Active Crypto-Miners Operate Illegally, Official Says

Iran is grappling with a surge in illegal crypto mining, with over 95% of its mining devices operating without authorization. The country's cheap electricity has made it a haven for illicit miners, who consume massive amounts of power, straining the national grid. Many conceal their activities by posing as industrial facilities to access subsidized electricity rates. Authorities have shut down numerous unauthorized mining farms and seized thousands of machines. The government is offering rewards to citizens who report illegal mining operations. Iran ranks fifth globally in Bitcoin hashrate distribution, contributing 4.2% of the total network's computing power. Identified hotspots for illegal mining include Pakdasht, Malard, Shahre Qods, and southwestern Tehran's industrial zones. Inspectors have uncovered clandestine farms in underground tunnels and factories using subsidized power. Specialized inspection teams are collaborating with law enforcement to dismantle these illegal operations. The crackdown aims to stabilize electricity supplies affected by the energy-intensive mining activities.