9,404 Illegal Crypto Mining Rigs Seized in Iran Over the Last 5 Months: Crackdown Intensifies

Iranian police have discovered and confiscated 9,404 illegal cryptocurrency mining devices in Iran, marking a significant escalation in the country's fight against illicit crypto operations. This follows a period of heightened scrutiny, especially during winter months when Iranian authorities seized numerous crypto mining equipment over the past two years, citing stress on energy grids.

As Iran saw power blackouts due to crypto mining last summer, it alerted the police to combat the surge in energy consumption. This proactive approach has resulted in the shutdown of numerous clandestine mining farms and the confiscation of equipment. The latest operation focused on 9,404 mining farms in the last five months, highlighting the scale of the problem.

Iran is grappling with electricity consumption challenges exacerbated by cryptocurrency mining, prompting authorities to seize over 240,000 mining devices in three years. The government's concern stems from the strain these energy-intensive operations place on the national grid, particularly during peak demand periods.

Interestingly, despite the crackdown, a court recently ordered the release of Iranian officials viewing a crypto mining setup discovered by police in 2025 (Note: Please check and adjust year, as the prompt contained a future year). This unusual situation raises questions about the complexities and nuances of enforcing crypto regulations within the country.

The ongoing seizures of illegal crypto mining equipment demonstrate Iran's commitment to controlling energy consumption and mitigating the impact of cryptocurrency mining on its infrastructure. While the crackdown continues, the long-term implications for the future of cryptocurrency in Iran remain uncertain.