A surge in crypto-related kidnappings and violent attacks, known as 'wrench attacks', has put France under the international spotlight, prompting government officials to take action. This year alone, the country has experienced at least 41 such incidents, averaging one every two to three days. To tackle the issue, a new set of measures is being prepared, including a prevention platform that has already drawn thousands of registrations. The term 'wrench attack' refers to the use of physical force to extract access to digital assets, which can be easier for attackers than breaking encryption.
According to security researchers and law enforcement data, the trend is on the rise globally, with 72 verified physical coercion incidents in 2025, a 75% increase from the previous year. Attackers are now using more sophisticated methods to identify victims, including building profiles based on social media activity, public appearances, and leaked datasets. The problem is exacerbated when attackers receive insider information from government officials.
The pool of potential victims has widened, with mid-level holders being targeted, and cases now include families with children being targeted alongside crypto-holding parents. Experts recommend measures such as multi-signature setups, withdrawal delays, and spending limits to reduce the risk of wrench attacks. As crypto adoption grows, attacks are becoming more frequent and severe, turning a niche concern into a broader security risk.