The Alarming Rise of Crypto-Related Attacks in France and Beyond

A disturbing trend is emerging in France, where a surge in crypto-related kidnappings and home invasions has prompted authorities to increase security. The country has become a focal point for these so-called 'wrench attacks', which involve the use of physical force to gain access to digital assets. This year alone, France has seen at least 41 such incidents, equivalent to roughly one every two to three days. Government officials have expressed concern over the scale of the problem, with a new set of measures being prepared to tackle the issue. A prevention platform has already been launched, but further steps are needed to combat the rising number of attacks. The term 'wrench attack' refers to the use of physical coercion to extract access to digital assets, which can be easier for attackers than attempting to break encryption. According to security researchers and law enforcement data, the trend is not limited to France, with a global rise in wrench attacks reported. In 2025, there were 72 verified physical coercion incidents worldwide, representing a 75% increase from the previous year. The number of cases involving physical assault rose even faster, up 250% year-over-year. Attackers are becoming more sophisticated, using social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets to identify potential victims and track their routines. The problem is exacerbated when attackers receive insider information from government officials, as seen in a recent case where a French tax official sold sensitive data to wrench attackers. The pool of potential victims has expanded, with mid-level holders increasingly being targeted. Cases now include families, with children being targeted alongside crypto-holding parents, making the attacks harder to categorize by severity. In one notable case, Ledger co-founder David Balland was kidnapped in France, along with his partner, and was only rescued after a police operation. Other cases have involved prolonged captivity and torture, highlighting the severity of the threat. Security experts point to the need for increased awareness and precautions, such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits, to reduce the risk of wrench attacks. As crypto adoption grows, the frequency and severity of attacks are likely to increase, turning what was once a niche concern into a broader security risk.