Malaysia Unplugs Over 75,000 Crypto Rigs Amid Power Theft Crackdown

Decrypt · 2026-07-08
Malaysia Unplugs Over 75,000 Crypto Rigs Amid Power Theft Crackdown

Malaysia has intensified its campaign against illegal cryptocurrency mining, successfully disconnecting over 75,000 crypto rigs in an extensive effort to combat widespread power theft. This large-scale crackdown, spearheaded by authorities, targets miners illegally siphoning electricity from the national grid, demonstrating a firm commitment to protecting national resources. Since 2022, significant enforcement activities have included more than 3,000 raids nationwide, leading to the arrest of 629 individuals involved in the unauthorized use of electricity for mining operations. The substantial number of unplugged rigs and arrests highlights the Malaysian authorities' serious dedication to tackling challenges posed by energy-intensive crypto operations operating outside legal boundaries. Such large-scale grid siphoning not only strains the national power infrastructure but also causes significant economic losses for utility providers. The ongoing efforts are crucial for maintaining grid stability and ensuring fair resource distribution.