Mining in data centers under threat: fines up to 2 million rubles and equipment confiscation
Russian lawmakers have finally determined the punishment for illegal miners using data center capacities. The State Duma Committee on State Construction and Legislation approved for the second reading a package of amendments introducing administrative liability for placing mining equipment and mining digital currencies in data processing centers (DPCs). The maximum fine for commercial organizations will reach 2 million rubles.
The initiative, which was being discussed as early as summer 2025, has taken clear shape. The state is finally closing another popular method for cryptocurrency miners to place their computing power. This applies not only to the direct installation of ASIC devices but also to indirect participation in mining pools through DPC resources. The authorities aim to protect the stable operation of legal data centers from miners seeking industry preferences, including preferential technological connections and subsidized energy tariffs.
Essence of the Legislative Changes
The basic bill was submitted for consideration in January by a group of deputies led by the head of the Energy Committee, Nikolai Shulginov. As a result of the review, the Code of Administrative Offenses will be supplemented with a new article regulating penalties for illegal cryptocurrency mining.
The latest amendment is directly aimed against the use of commercial platforms. Both the direct installation of specialized devices and indirect participation in mining pools through DPC resources fall under the ban. The previous logic of the regulators is evident here.
Amounts of Administrative Fines
The developed sanctions are strictly differentiated depending on the legal status of the violators. Detailed parameters of liability are presented in the table:
| Category of Violators | Monetary Fine | Additional Penalties |
| Individuals | From 100,000 to 150,000 rubles | Mandatory confiscation of equipment |
| Officials | From 300,000 to 800,000 rubles | Disqualification for a period of 1 to 2 years |
| Individual Entrepreneurs | From 300,000 to 800,000 rubles | Suspension of activities for up to 90 days |
| Legal Entities | From 1 million to 2 million rubles | Suspension of activities for up to 90 days |
As a result, the most stringent measures will affect large businesses. Companies will not only have to pay substantial sums but also face the real threat of a complete halt to all operational processes.
Expert Opinion: This step is a logical continuation of the course toward total verification of mining in Russia. The blow to "gray" schemes in DPCs will seriously harm small and medium-sized players who tried to save on infrastructure. However, large legal miners operating within the registry will only benefit from reduced competition and market regulation. The market expects a new wave of consolidation.