A surge in crypto-related kidnappings has put France at the center of a global rise in wrench attacks, with authorities scrambling to respond to the alarming trend. This year alone, the country has seen at least 41 cases of crypto-related kidnappings and home invasions, prompting officials to acknowledge the scale of the problem and vow to take action. The increase in attacks has been attributed to a mix of factors, including the growing visibility of crypto wealth and the ease with which attackers can use physical force to extract access to digital assets. According to security researchers, the trend is not limited to France, with verified physical coercion incidents rising by 75% globally in 2025.
The use of physical force to extract access to digital assets, known as wrench attacks, has become a major concern for crypto holders, with many cases going unreported. Researchers say that attackers are now targeting mid-level holders and using social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets to identify potential victims. The problem is further complicated by the fact that crypto transactions cannot be reversed, making it difficult for authorities to track and recover stolen funds. In response to the growing threat, security experts are recommending 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 need for effective security measures has become increasingly urgent, with the risk of wrench attacks posing a significant threat to the safety and security of crypto holders.