Illegal crypto mining operation found at University of Wrocław

Authorities uncovered an illegal cryptocurrency mining operation in the basement of the University of Wrocław after smoke was detected coming from the law department’s ventilation ducts.

Police spokesman Wojciech Jabłoński reported that the smoke was caused by a short circuit in the mining devices, which were wirelessly connected to external systems through routers.

Upon investigation, police discovered multiple mining devices consuming large amounts of electricity, all covertly installed and linked to the university’s electrical system.

“The smoke resulted from a short circuit in the devices, which were wirelessly linked to external systems via routers,” Jabłoński stated.

Cryptocurrency mining operations typically require substantial power to generate digital assets like Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC), raising concerns about energy theft and financial losses.

The equipment has since been transferred to Poland’s Central Bureau for Combating Cybercrime, which is tasked with identifying those responsible for this illegal setup.

Potential charges against those involved could include theft of electricity, which has contributed to significant financial losses for the university.

University spokeswoman Katarzyna Górowicz-Maćkiewicz confirmed that the incident occurred in mid-October, although further assessments of financial damages are still pending.

This case adds to a growing trend of illegal mining operations being discovered globally. 

Tvpworld.com noted a similar incident last year when mining equipment was found in the Supreme Administrative Court in Warsaw, resulting in damages exceeding 1 million złoty (approximately $233,000).

The investigation into the University of Wrocław incident is ongoing, with authorities focused on holding those accountable for this unauthorized operation. 

As cryptocurrency mining continues to face scrutiny, incidents like this highlight the need for regulatory oversight and compliance within educational institutions.