The Alarming Rise of Crypto-Related Violence: France at the Epicenter

A surge in crypto-related kidnappings and home invasions, known as wrench attacks, has placed France under international scrutiny. This phenomenon was particularly evident during an annual blockchain and crypto conference, where heightened security measures were implemented, including a police escort for VIP guests. Government officials expressed concern over the scale of the issue, with at least 41 such incidents occurring this year, averaging one every two to three days. Minister Delegate Jean-Didier Berger announced plans to introduce new measures to tackle the problem, alongside Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. A prevention platform has been launched, with thousands of registrations, but further action is deemed necessary as incidents continue to escalate. 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 security researcher Jameson Lopp, the global trend is on the rise, with 72 verified physical coercion incidents in 2025, a 75% increase from the previous year. Many cases go unreported, with the actual number potentially much higher. The ease with which crypto transactions cannot be reversed once authorized under duress, and the quick transfer of funds across wallets and chains, contribute to the attractiveness of these attacks. Researchers note a shift in attackers' strategies, from targeting technical vulnerabilities to building profiles of potential victims through social media, public appearances, and leaked datasets. This shift has led to mid-level crypto holders being increasingly targeted. The problem is exacerbated when government officials inadvertently aid attackers, such as in a case where a French tax official sold sensitive data to wrench attackers. The widening pool of potential victims, including families and children of crypto holders, makes these attacks harder to categorize by severity. Notable cases include the kidnapping of Ledger co-founder David Balland and his partner, and incidents involving prolonged captivity, torture, and other forms of violence. Both opportunistic and organized groups are involved, with signs of increasing coordination among attackers. After obtaining funds, attackers quickly convert them into stablecoins and route them across multiple chains, complicating recovery efforts. France's central role in this trend may be attributed 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, while improvements in digital security have reduced the effectiveness of purely technical exploits. The underreporting of wrench attacks, often recorded as standard robberies or home invasions without mention of crypto, hinders authorities' ability to connect cases and identify broader patterns. The increase in attacks has raised questions about the risks of self-custody, a core principle of cryptocurrency. Security experts recommend measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits to reduce risk by limiting access to funds under duress. As crypto adoption grows, so does the frequency and severity of attacks, transforming a once niche concern into a broader security risk.