The Alarming Rise of Crypto-Related Kidnappings in France and the Growing Threat of Wrench Attacks

A disturbing trend is emerging in France, where crypto-related kidnappings, known as "wrench attacks," are becoming increasingly frequent, brazen, and violent. The country has witnessed at least 41 such incidents this year, averaging one every two to three days. This surge in attacks has prompted government officials to acknowledge the severity of the issue and announce plans to implement new measures to tackle the problem. The rise of wrench attacks, which involve using physical force to extract access to digital assets, has put France at the center of a global phenomenon. According to security researchers and law enforcement data, these attacks are becoming more common and more violent worldwide, with 72 verified physical coercion incidents reported globally in 2025, representing a 75% increase from the previous year. The term "wrench attack" refers to the use of physical force to coerce individuals into revealing their crypto assets, often because it is easier to exploit human vulnerability than to break encryption. Researchers note that attackers are shifting their approach from targeting technical vulnerabilities to building profiles of potential victims, tracking their social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets to identify points of weakness. The problem is further complicated when insiders, such as government officials, inadvertently or intentionally provide attackers with sensitive information. The pool of potential victims has expanded, with mid-level crypto holders and even families with children being targeted. Cases have involved prolonged captivity, torture, and severe violence, highlighting the need for increased security measures. Experts recommend implementing measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits to reduce the risk of wrench attacks. As crypto adoption continues to grow, the frequency and severity of these attacks are likely to increase, turning a once niche concern into a broader security risk.