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

A surge in crypto-related kidnappings, known as 'wrench attacks,' has put France at the forefront of a global issue. These attacks involve the use of physical force to gain access to digital assets, and their frequency and brutality are increasing. The country has seen at least 41 such incidents this year, prompting government officials to acknowledge the problem and announce new measures to tackle it. A prevention platform has been launched, but more needs to be done as the number of attacks continues to rise. The term 'wrench attack' refers to the use of physical coercion to extract access to digital assets, and it has become a major concern for crypto holders worldwide. According to security researchers and law enforcement data, the trend is on the rise globally, with 72 verified physical coercion incidents reported in 2025, a 75% increase from the previous year. Many more cases go unreported, and the problem is exacerbated by the fact that crypto transactions cannot be reversed once a victim authorizes a transfer under duress. Researchers say that attackers are now identifying victims by building profiles, tracking social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets, rather than scanning for technical vulnerabilities. This shift has made it easier for attackers to target crypto holders, and the pool of potential victims has widened to include mid-level holders and even families. Cases of wrench attacks have involved prolonged captivity, torture, and even murder, making it a serious security risk. Security experts point to measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits as ways to reduce the risk of wrench attacks by limiting access to funds under duress.