A surge in crypto-related kidnappings has placed France at the forefront of a global rise in wrench attacks, with the country experiencing a significant increase in these violent incidents. The trend was evident during a recent international blockchain and crypto conference, where enhanced security measures were put in place to protect attendees. According to government officials, at least 41 crypto-related kidnappings and home invasions have occurred in France this year, averaging approximately one incident every two to three days. Minister Delegate to the Interior Ministry, Jean-Didier Berger, announced plans to introduce new measures to tackle the growing issue, including a prevention platform that has already garnered thousands of registrations.
However, authorities acknowledge that further action is necessary as incidents continue to escalate. The global rise in wrench attacks is also a cause for concern, 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, and researchers note that attackers are increasingly targeting individuals rather than exploiting technical vulnerabilities. This shift has led to a change in the way attackers identify victims, with a focus on building profiles based on social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets.
The problem is compounded when attackers receive assistance from government officials, such as in a high-profile case where a French tax official sold sensitive data to wrench attackers. The pool of potential victims has expanded, with mid-level holders being targeted, and cases now include families with children being targeted alongside crypto-holding parents. The severity of these attacks has also increased, with instances of prolonged captivity, torture, and even murder.
Security experts point to the increasing coordination among attackers, with some groups operating with defined roles and pre-planning. To mitigate the risk of wrench attacks, experts recommend measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits to reduce the potential payoff for attackers. As crypto adoption continues to grow, the frequency and severity of these attacks are likely to increase, making it essential for authorities and individuals to take proactive steps to prevent and respond to these incidents.