The Alarming Rise of Crypto-Related Violence: How France Became a Hotbed for Wrench Attacks

A surge in crypto-related kidnappings has put France under the international spotlight, prompting government officials to take action against the escalating problem. This year alone, the country has seen at least 41 cases of crypto-related kidnappings and home invasions, occurring at a rate of approximately one every two to three days. In response, a new set of measures is being developed to tackle the issue, including a prevention platform that has already garnered thousands of registrations. However, authorities acknowledge that further steps are necessary as incidents continue to rise. The term 'wrench attack' refers to the use of physical force to gain access to digital assets, and researchers note that attackers are now targeting individuals rather than just their wallets. By tracking social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets, attackers identify potential victims and exploit points of weakness. The problem is exacerbated when government officials inadvertently aid attackers, 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 to include mid-level holders, with cases involving families and children being targeted alongside their crypto-holding parents. Notable cases include the kidnapping of Ledger co-founder David Balland in January 2025, who was rescued after a police operation, and other instances of prolonged captivity and torture. Security experts warn that both opportunistic and organized groups are involved, with signs of increasing coordination among attackers. To mitigate the risk of wrench attacks, experts recommend measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits to limit access to funds under duress. As crypto adoption grows, the frequency and severity of attacks are increasing, transforming what was once a niche concern into a broader security risk.