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

A disturbing trend is unfolding in France, where a significant increase in crypto-related kidnappings has prompted authorities to heighten security measures. This shift was evident during a recent international blockchain and crypto conference, where a police motorcade escorted VIP guests, and security was noticeably reinforced at the event venue. French officials have expressed alarm at the scale of the problem, revealing that the country has experienced at least 41 crypto-related kidnappings and home invasions this year alone, translating to approximately one incident every two to three days. Minister Delegate Jean-Didier Berger announced that new measures are being devised to tackle the growing 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 for some attackers, it is easier to coerce a person than to break encryption. According to security researchers and law enforcement data, the trend is not unique to France, with a 75% increase in verified physical coercion incidents globally in 2025. The way attackers identify victims has also evolved, with a shift from targeting technical vulnerabilities to building profiles based on social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets. Researchers emphasize that the biggest avoidable mistake is linking real-world identity, location, and routine too closely to visible crypto wealth. The problem is exacerbated when attackers receive insider information, such as in a 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, sometimes based on limited or indirect signals. Cases now include families, with children being targeted alongside crypto-holding parents, making the attacks harder to categorize by severity. Experts point to measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits as ways to reduce risk by limiting access to funds under duress. As crypto adoption grows, attacks are becoming more frequent and severe, turning a once niche concern into a broader security risk.