The Alarming Surge of Crypto-Related Violence: How France Became a Hotspot

A disturbing wave of crypto-related kidnappings, known as 'wrench attacks,' is sweeping France, with the country experiencing a notable increase in frequency, brazenness, and violence. This shift was evident during a recent international blockchain and crypto conference, where heightened security measures were implemented, including police escorts for VIP guests and reinforced security at the conference venue. Government officials addressed the issue, revealing that France has seen at least 41 crypto-related kidnappings and home invasions this year, averaging one every two to three days. Minister Delegate Jean-Didier Berger announced plans to introduce new measures to tackle the growing problem, 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, often proving easier for attackers than breaking 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. Attackers are now identifying victims by building profiles, tracking social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets, rather than scanning for technical vulnerabilities. The problem is exacerbated when attackers receive insider information from government officials, as seen in a recent 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 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. Security 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, transforming what was once a niche concern into a broader security risk.