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

A disturbing trend is emerging in France, where crypto holders are being targeted in increasingly brazen and violent attacks, known as wrench attacks, prompting government officials to take action. This year alone, the country has seen at least 41 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. The term 'wrench attack' refers to the use of physical force to gain access to digital assets, often proving easier for attackers than attempting to break encryption. According to security researchers and law enforcement data, the global trend is also on the rise, with 72 verified physical coercion incidents reported in 2025, representing a 75% increase from the previous year. The number of cases involving physical assault rose even more sharply, with a 250% year-over-year increase. Attackers are now focusing on identifying vulnerabilities in individuals rather than technical weaknesses, tracking social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets to build profiles and pinpoint potential targets. The problem is further 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, with mid-level holders and even families being targeted, sometimes based on limited or indirect signals. Recent cases have involved severe violence, including kidnappings, torture, and waterboarding, highlighting the severity of the threat. Both opportunistic and organized groups are involved, with signs of increasing coordination and pre-planning. After obtaining funds, attackers quickly convert them into stablecoins and move them across multiple chains, making recovery more difficult. The rise of wrench attacks in France may be attributed to a combination of factors, including leaked personal data and cross-border criminal networks. As crypto asset prices continue to rise, the potential payoff from a single attack increases, while improvements in digital security have reduced the effectiveness of purely technical exploits. The increase in attacks has raised concerns about the risks associated with self-custody, a core principle of cryptocurrency. To mitigate these risks, security experts recommend measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits, which can limit the amount of funds accessible under duress. As crypto adoption grows, it is essential to address the growing threat of wrench attacks and develop effective strategies to protect crypto holders.