Wrench attacks surge: France becomes epicentre of crypto kidnappings

France has emerged as a focal point for violent “wrench” attacks targeting cryptocurrency holders, with authorities reporting 41 crypto‑linked kidnappings so far this year. The spike has pushed public security onto the agenda at industry events and prompted immediate preventive steps from the interior ministry.

According to officials and media reporting, attackers have used abductions of relatives, home invasions and impersonation of officers to coerce victims into transferring digital assets. Jean‑Didier Berger, speaking at Paris Blockchain Week, said the ministry has launched a prevention platform that attracted thousands of registrations and promised a more comprehensive response in the coming weeks. Independent security firms’ data show a notable global rise in wrench attacks during 2025, with France among the worst affected countries in Europe.

While direct market price shocks have been limited, the trend feeds into broader operational and reputational risk for the crypto sector. Conferences and exchanges have stepped up physical security, and some industry participants are reassessing personal and corporate protective measures—an outcome that could raise costs and affect investor sentiment toward custody and self‑custody solutions.

Law‑enforcement sources indicate a pattern of organized groups, including networks operating across borders, exploiting data leaks and public‑facing disclosures to locate targets. Investigations covering 2023–2025 have linked multiple incidents to coordinated cells and have driven arrests and dedicated police inquiries, underscoring the need for cross‑border cooperation in tackling the phenomenon.

Market observers and security analysts expect immediate policy responses to focus on protective services for holders, tighter data controls and stronger policing, while warning that meaningful deterrence will require sustained investigative resources and international coordination. For institutional participants, the crisis highlights the trade‑off between visibility for business development and the physical security risks that visibility can create.