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

A surge in crypto-related kidnappings has put France at the forefront of a global issue, with at least 41 such incidents reported this year, averaging nearly one every two to three days. The country's heightened security concerns were evident during a recent international blockchain and crypto conference, where VIP guests were escorted by police motorcades and security was reinforced at key event locations. Government officials have expressed alarm at the scale of the problem, with Minister Delegate Jean-Didier Berger announcing the preparation of new measures to tackle the issue. A prevention platform has already garnered thousands of registrations, but further action is deemed necessary as incidents continue to rise. The term 'wrench attack' refers to the use of physical force to extract access to digital assets, often proving easier for attackers than attempting to break encryption. According to security researchers and law enforcement data, such attacks are becoming more frequent and violent globally, with 72 verified physical coercion incidents reported in 2025, representing a 75% increase from the previous year. The trend is attributed to the increased ease of coercing individuals rather than attempting to break encryption, with crypto transactions being irreversible once authorized under duress. Researchers note a shift in attackers' strategies, from targeting technical vulnerabilities to building profiles of potential victims through social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets. The problem is exacerbated by insider leaks and compromised state data, with the pool of potential victims expanding to include mid-level holders and even families. Cases of prolonged captivity, torture, and severe violence have been reported, with both opportunistic and organized groups involved. Experts suggest that increasing coordination among attackers and the use of defined roles and pre-planning tactics are becoming more common. To mitigate these risks, security experts recommend measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits to reduce the incentive for attackers. As crypto adoption continues to grow, the frequency and severity of these attacks are likely to increase, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures and awareness.