Hong Kong Cracks Down on Cryptocurrency Mining, Suspects Face Up to 5 Years in Prison

Hong Kong authorities have arrested two men for allegedly installing a cryptocurrency mining rig at a disabled care home to steal electricity. The home incurred additional costs of up to 9,000 Hong Kong dollars. The suspects could face up to 5 years in prison under the Theft Ordinance. Authorities warn citizens to monitor their electricity bills and report any unusual changes.

Hong Kong authorities have arrested two men for allegedly installing cryptocurrency mining rigs at a disabled care home to steal electricity. The incident, which occurred at the Cheung Sha Wan facility managed by the Hong Kong Association for the Spastics Children (SAHK), resulted in additional electricity costs of up to HK$9,000. The suspects, aged 32 and 33, are facing charges of "electricity theft" under the Theft Ordinance, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison [1].

The duo, who worked for an engineering company, exploited their projects to surreptitiously connect mining rigs to the network and power systems of the care homes during smart device installations in August. The mining rigs caused significant electricity costs, ranging from HK$8,000 to HK$9,000, for the facilities [2].

The SAHK discovered unusual network slowdowns and high electricity bills, prompting an investigation that led to the arrest of the suspects. The incident highlights the importance of vigilance when engaging engineering companies for renovation or installation projects to prevent unauthorized installations that could result in financial losses [1].

Authorities advise citizens to monitor their electricity bills and network usage for any abnormal fluctuations and report such occurrences promptly. Electricity theft is a serious offense under the Theft Ordinance, and the SAHK has pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation [1].

References:
[1] https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/illegal-bitcoin-mining-operation-uncovered-in-facilities-for-disabled-individuals-two-arrested-for-electricity-theft/
[2] https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3324779/2-arrested-hong-kong-over-alleged-theft-electricity-bitcoin-mining