A disturbing trend is emerging in France, where crypto-related kidnappings and home invasions, known as 'wrench attacks,' are on the rise. These attacks involve the use of physical force to gain access to digital assets, and their frequency and brutality are alarming authorities and security experts alike. The country has become the epicenter of this global phenomenon, with at least 41 such incidents reported this year, averaging one every two to three days. Government officials are taking notice, with the Minister Delegate to the Interior Ministry, Jean-Didier Berger, announcing plans to implement new measures to tackle the issue.
A prevention platform has already been launched, but more needs to be done to address the growing problem. The rise of wrench attacks is not limited to France, with a 75% increase in verified physical coercion incidents globally in 2025, according to data from Certik and crypto researcher Jameson Lopp. The term 'wrench attack' refers to the use of physical force to extract access to digital assets, often because it is easier for attackers to coerce a person than to break encryption.
Security researchers note that attackers are shifting their approach from targeting technical vulnerabilities to building profiles of potential victims, using social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets to identify points of weakness. The problem is further complicated when attackers receive inside help from government officials, as seen 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 and even families being targeted. Cases have involved prolonged captivity, torture, and even murder, making it harder to categorize the severity of the attacks. Experts point to the increasing coordination among attackers, with some groups operating with defined roles and pre-planning, including surveillance and follow-home tactics.
After obtaining funds, attackers quickly move them into stablecoins and route them across multiple chains, making recovery more difficult. The rise of wrench attacks in France may be attributed to a mix of factors, including leaked personal data and cross-border criminal networks.
As crypto adoption grows, so do the risks, with some security experts questioning the safety of self-custody, a core principle of cryptocurrency. To mitigate these risks, experts recommend measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits to reduce the incentive for attackers.