The Alarming Rise of Crypto-Related Kidnappings in France

A surge in crypto-related kidnappings has put France at the forefront of a global rise in wrench attacks, with the country experiencing one such incident every two to three days. This trend was highlighted during an international blockchain and crypto conference, where government officials acknowledged the scale of the problem and announced plans to introduce new measures to tackle it. According to security researchers, the number of verified physical coercion incidents worldwide increased by 75% in 2025, with many more cases going unreported. The term 'wrench attack' refers to the use of physical force to gain access to digital assets, and researchers say that attackers are now using more sophisticated methods to identify and target victims, including building profiles based on social media activity and public appearances. The problem is further complicated by insider leaks and compromised state data, which can provide attackers with valuable information. As the pool of potential victims expands to include mid-level holders and even families, security experts are emphasizing the importance of taking measures to reduce the risk of wrench attacks, such as using multi-signature setups and withdrawal delays. The rise of crypto adoption has turned what was once a niche concern into a broader security risk, with authorities and individuals alike needing to be vigilant and proactive in protecting themselves against these types of attacks.