A surge in crypto-related kidnappings has put France at the center of a global rise in wrench attacks, with the country experiencing one such incident every 2.5 days. The phenomenon was highlighted during a recent international blockchain and crypto conference in Paris, where enhanced security measures were evident. Government officials expressed concern over the scale of the problem, revealing that at least 41 crypto-related kidnappings and home invasions have occurred in France this year. In response, a new set of measures is being developed to address the issue, including a prevention platform that has already garnered thousands of registrations.
The global trend of wrench attacks is also on the rise, with 72 verified physical coercion incidents reported in 2025, representing a 75% increase from the previous year. The term 'wrench attack' refers to the use of physical force to gain access to digital assets, often proving easier for attackers than breaking encryption.
According to researchers, the way attackers identify victims has shifted from scanning for technical vulnerabilities to building profiles based on social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets. This shift has led to a wider pool of potential victims, including mid-level holders and families. The problem is further exacerbated when attackers receive insider information from government officials.
The increasing severity and frequency of wrench attacks have raised questions about the risks associated with self-custody, a core principle of cryptocurrency. Security experts recommend measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits to reduce the risk of wrench attacks by limiting access to funds under duress.