Chinese Government Steps Up Anti-Crypto Mining Campaign In Heibei Province

Crypto mining is a prohibited activity in China. (photo: doc. unsplash)

JAKARTA - The internet commission in northern China's Hebei province said it would cooperate with other government departments to crack down on digital currency mining and trading. This is the latest step in a crackdown on cryptocurrencies in the country.

According to the Commission, the provincial education department, public security department, local financial regulatory bureau, and communications administration will also participate in the crackdown.

"Cryptocurrency mining consumes large amounts of energy, which goes against China's 'carbon neutral' goals," the statement said, adding that it also carries great financial risks.

In May, China's State Council, or cabinet, pledged to crack down on bitcoin mining and trading. They also stepped up their campaign against cryptocurrencies days after three industry bodies banned crypto-related financial services and payments.

The commission said that before September 30, the department should check the information systems they use, to avoid using any computing power to engage in illegal mining of virtual currencies.

He added that they should increase the collection of information from whistleblowers and the general public. From October, the Internet Commission will regularly monitor the sector and punish those who violate the rules.