Illegal crypto mining operations identified as cause of power disruptions in Malaysian state.
Illegal crypto mining operations identified as cause of power disruptions in Malaysian state.
The Rise of Illegal Crypto Mining in Sarawak: A Threat to Energy Stability
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The state of Sarawak in Malaysia has become a hotbed for crypto mining rigs, with many of them operating illegally. Sarawak Energy, the state-owned electric utility firm, recently announced that it has identified two illegal cryptocurrency mining sites that have been causing recurrent power disruptions in certain areas of the state.
The firm launched an investigation into the mining operators who have established their operations in residential areas. A police report was filed, revealing that the illegal crypto mining activities in the region have resulted in an overload on Sarawak Energy’s power lines. The investigation was prompted by numerous complaints from locals about power outages, which were found to be caused by the energy-intensive operations placing a heavy load on the power lines.
The investigation quickly uncovered the presence of illegal crypto mining servers in two premises, with a total of 74 units identified. In response, Sarawak Energy seized all the direct tapping cables, crypto mining gadgets, and servers from these locations.
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Risk and Loss
In addition to the immediate disruptions caused by these illegal mining operations, Sarawak Energy has incurred significant financial losses. The Malaysian energy firm warns the illegal mining operators of the legal implications they face if found to be non-compliant with the law. The unauthorized operations have resulted in losses of more than 16,000 Malaysian Ringgit ($3,400) per month for Sarawak Energy, due to unrecorded consumption.
However, financial losses are not the only concern. The company emphasizes that these illegal operations also contribute to electricity theft, posing severe risks to both individuals and infrastructure. The risks include short circuits, fires, appliance damage, and potentially even loss of life.
To address this growing issue, Sarawak Energy is collaborating closely with the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak, the police, and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to enhance their methods in detecting new electricity theft techniques. This partnership aims to develop improved detection mechanisms to prevent further instances of illegal crypto mining activities.
This recent incident is not an isolated case. Sarawak has experienced multiple reports of electricity theft related to cryptocurrency mining. In June, a crypto miner was caught stealing electricity to power mining activities in the town of Miri. Sarawak Energy warns both individuals and businesses about the dangers of stealing electricity, emphasizing the potential safety hazards it poses for themselves as well as their neighbors.
The rise of illegal crypto mining in Sarawak serves as a stark reminder of the challenges the blockchain industry faces in terms of regulation and compliance. While blockchain technology holds immense promise for various sectors, it also attracts individuals seeking quick and illicit gains.
The emergence of illegal mining operations underscores the need for robust measures to ensure the responsible and legal use of blockchain technology. It is crucial for both industry players and authorities to work together and implement effective monitoring and enforcement strategies.
Sarawak Energy’s efforts to coordinate with relevant agencies reflect an important step towards safeguarding the integrity of the energy system and mitigating the risks associated with illegal crypto mining. By staying vigilant and continually improving detection techniques, stakeholders can protect critical infrastructure, prevent financial losses, and ensure the safety and well-being of communities.
In conclusion, the phenomenon of illegal crypto mining in Sarawak serves as a wake-up call for the blockchain industry. As technology advances and cryptocurrencies gain traction, regulatory frameworks must be strengthened to combat illicit activities. Failure to address these issues may not only result in financial losses but also jeopardize the stability of essential services and compromise public safety.
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