A homeowner in Cherating, Kuantan, is facing significant financial losses after a tenant allegedly used her property for illegal bitcoin mining, according to local reports. The tenant, who rented the house in April, is accused of tampering with the property’s electrical wiring and causing extensive damage to the home.

Rabiatul Adawiyah Abdul Rahman, 35, said she discovered the unauthorized activity after neighbours alerted her to a visit by personnel from Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) and police officers on Sunday. She explained that the tenant had portrayed themselves as a family occupant and had consistently paid rent on time, which led her to believe there was no cause for concern.

“I handed over the house in new condition, with new wiring. But now my house has been ruined,” Rabiatul Adawiyah said. She added that the tenant had drilled holes throughout the house and made alterations to the ceiling and electrical system to facilitate bitcoin mining operations.

In addition to the physical damage, Rabiatul Adawiyah may face claims from TNB related to alleged electricity theft at the property. The utility company often investigates unauthorized power usage, particularly when linked to energy-intensive activities such as cryptocurrency mining.

The situation highlights the potential risks landlords face when unaware of tenants' activities, especially as cryptocurrency mining grows in popularity despite its heavy electricity consumption and possible legal restrictions in certain areas. Authorities continue to investigate the case, and further details about the tenant’s identity or legal proceedings have not been disclosed.