France has recently emerged as one of the countries most affected by “wrench attacks”—physical assaults targeting cryptocurrency owners. As crypto asset adoption increases, incidents of these violent and organized attacks have risen, prompting authorities to closely monitor developments.
Unprecedented security at crypto conference
During an international blockchain and cryptocurrency conference in Paris, security measures were ramped up to their highest levels. VIP attendees at the Palace of Versailles were escorted by police, and strict entry controls were implemented in the Louvre area where the event was held. These precautions came in the wake of several recent crypto-related attacks across France.
Authorities on high alert: 41 incidents recorded
Jean-Didier Berger, an official at the Interior Ministry, announced that new measures are being prepared to address the issue. So far this year, France has reported at least 41 kidnappings or home invasions linked to cryptocurrencies, averaging one attack every two to three days. Authorities stated that thousands have signed up for preventive platforms, but emphasized that further steps are needed as cases continue.
Given the frequency and scale of these incidents, security experts now consider France a global hotspot for crypto-related assaults. Researchers report that worldwide, these cases are becoming more violent, noting a 75% increase from the previous year to 72 confirmed incidents in 2025. Furthermore, cases involving physical violence rose by 250% in a single year.
“Every new wrench attack sends the message worldwide that crypto investors are easy targets,” a security specialist explained.
Changing targets and attack methods
Wrench attacks involve assailants using physical threats or force to extract access to digital assets from victims. Instead of searching for technical vulnerabilities, attackers are now tracking victims through social media and leaked data, analyzing their routines and digital footprints to identify weaknesses. Experts caution that revealing one’s real identity and daily habits online increases exposure to such risks.
Some recent incidents have involved data leaks from within government institutions, including French tax officials allegedly supplying personal information to attackers. These disclosures have fueled concerns about insider threats and the potential for public data to be funneled to organized crime groups.
The range of targeted victims is no longer limited to ultra-wealthy individuals; medium-scale investors and families have also become the focus of attackers. In some cases, even children are viewed as potential leverage in criminal plans.
In a shocking episode in January 2025, David Balland, co-founder of Ledger, was kidnapped in France and his captors reportedly sent a part of his body to force ransom negotiations. Similar violent attacks have been documented in Canada and the United States, indicating a growing risk for kidnapped crypto investors worldwide.
Authorities report that not only isolated incidents are on the rise, but also premeditated attacks by organized criminal groups. These teams conduct surveillance and execute swift raids on victims’ homes, quickly laundering stolen funds through cross-chain transfers and converting them to stablecoins, making tracking nearly impossible.
“These incidents are no longer just one-off robberies—they are the work of organized teams targeting individuals known to hold crypto portfolios,” security researchers note.
Causes and consequences
Experts point out that as the value of crypto assets climbs, the potential gains from a single attack increase. While digital security measures are improving, physical coercion remains significantly more effective than technical hacking. Many of these occurrences are officially reported as generic burglaries or home invasions, with their crypto links frequently undisclosed.
With advancing technology, some security specialists recommend multi-signature verification, withdrawal limits, and delayed transaction approvals to reduce risk. However, they also caution that it is impossible to eliminate the threat entirely. The self-custody model fundamental to crypto holdings carries new and evolving physical security risks.
