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

A surge in crypto-related kidnappings has put France at the center of a global problem, with 'wrench attacks' becoming increasingly brazen and violent. The country has seen at least 41 such incidents this year, prompting government officials to acknowledge the scale of the issue and pledge to take action. A prevention platform has been launched, but further measures are needed to tackle the growing threat. The term 'wrench attack' refers to the use of physical force to extract access to digital assets, and the trend is on the rise globally, with 72 verified incidents reported in 2025, a 75% increase from the previous year. Researchers say attackers are now targeting individuals rather than just their wallets, using social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets to build profiles and identify points of weakness. The problem is exacerbated when attackers receive inside help from government officials, and the pool of potential victims has widened to include mid-level holders and even families. Cases have involved prolonged captivity, torture, and severe violence, and both opportunistic and organized groups are involved. After obtaining funds, attackers quickly move them across multiple chains, making recovery difficult. France's role in this trend may be due to a mix of factors, including leaked personal data and cross-border criminal networks. Rising asset prices have increased the potential payoff from a single attack, and improvements in digital security have reduced the effectiveness of purely technical exploits. The increase in attacks has raised questions about the risks of self-custody, and security experts recommend measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits to reduce risk. As crypto adoption grows, attacks are becoming more frequent and severe, turning what was once a niche concern into a broader security risk.