SBU cyber specialists exposed cryptocurrency "miners" who connected their equipment to electrical substations in Dnipropetrovsk region. Not only they stole electricity, but also posed a threat to the region's critical infrastructure.

The suspects caused at least UAH 2 m. (USD 71,500) losses for three months of their illegal activity.

SBU officers found that the organizers created a powerful cryptocurrency mine. The miners placed the equipment in rented warehouses and connected it to the nearby power facility.

To conceal the illegal electricity consumption, the miners used specialized equipment to interfere with the electricity metering system. The unlawful activity could have led to power failures.

During the searches the law enforcement seized:

• more than 350 machines for cryptocurrency mining;
• specialized equipment for intervention with the automated electricity metering network.

The criminal proceedings were initiated upon theft of electrical energy through its unauthorized use, as well as impeding the work of computers, automated systems, computer networks or telecommunications networks.

The investigation is ongoing.

The operation was carried out by the SBU Office in Dnipropetrovsk region under the coordination of the SBU Department of Cyber Security, jointly with investigators of the National Police in Dnipropetrovsk region under the supervision of Dnipropetrovsk Regional Prosecutor's Office.