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The US government launched a national security investigation into Bitmain Technologies after federal officials raised concerns about potential threats linked to its mining hardware.
The probe, known internally as Operation Red Sunset, focuses on whether the company’s devices can be remotely controlled from China and whether these machines pose risks to critical sites across the United States.
Federal investigators lead the inquiry through the Department of Homeland Security. They review whether Bitmain’s machines allow remote access. Officials noted that earlier reviews found several machines operating near sensitive facilities.
Senate investigators warned of “disturbing vulnerabilities” in a July 2025 report. The document stated that Bitmain devices could allow outside control. Authorities linked those warnings to growing worries about foreign equipment in critical areas.
Past reviews also raised additional alerts. One federal assessment identified issues at a mining site close to a US military base. That finding expanded concerns within homeland security offices. Officials then increased scrutiny of foreign-owned mining sites using imported hardware.
In May 2024, President Joe Biden ordered the shutdown of a Chinese-owned mining facility in Wyoming. Officials concluded its proximity to a key Air Force base posed a national security risk.
Federal agencies detained multiple Bitmain shipments at US ports during the investigation. Officials opened devices to examine chips and firmware. They also inspected networking components for potential vulnerabilities.
Investigators searched for hidden communication features. They examined machines for any embedded backdoors. They also checked whether the hardware contained tools that allow remote commands.
These steps follow broader concerns about the placement of Bitmain machines near power plants and grid-connected sites. Officials pointed to flagged incidents involving facilities located close to military installations. These locations added urgency to the security review.
The investigation continues as authorities evaluate whether these devices threaten US infrastructure. Could foreign-produced mining hardware create unseen risks if deployed near sensitive locations?
Bitmain rejected all allegations. The company stated that it has no remote access capability. It also said it follows all US laws. Bitmain claimed it had no knowledge of Operation Red Sunset.
The company explained that earlier device detentions related only to standard FCC checks. Bitmain said claims of hidden access tools are “unequivocally false.” It stated that its machines contain no features that threaten US security.
Conflict-of-interest concerns surfaced due to the Trump family’s reported business connections. President Trump has pledged to make the United States the global hub for cryptocurrency. That promise raised questions about overlapping interests.
Richard Painter, a former White House ethics counsel, warned that such connections could challenge national security safeguards. The White House denied any wrongdoing. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed allegations of improper involvement.
Bitmain repeated its position that it follows applicable regulations. The company said it respects US law and has never taken part in activities that endanger national security.
Also Read: US Treasury Approves Crypto ETPs to Offer Staking Rewards
US investigators continue to review Bitmain mining hardware as national security risks gain attention across key federal agencies. The probe examines possible remote access functions and sensitive site exposure. Readers should stay aware of ongoing regulatory actions that may shape future oversight of foreign-sourced crypto infrastructure.
