France boosts security after crypto kidnapping surge

France faces a surge in violent crypto kidnappings, prompting new prevention platforms and security measures to protect digital asset holders from rising “wrench attacks.”

France is witnessing a sharp rise in violent crimes targeting cryptocurrency holders. Police records indicate 41 crypto-related kidnappings since early 2026, averaging one attack every 2.5 days. Notable incidents include the abduction of a mother and her son in Burgundy, held for ransom due to the father’s crypto business, who were later rescued by elite police units. Criminals are increasingly focusing on visible crypto investors, exploiting the irreversible and hard-to-trace nature of digital assets. This trend has made France a European hotspot for so-called “wrench attacks,” where physical violence is used to force victims to transfer crypto holdings. In response, authorities have launched a prevention platform and are developing a comprehensive security plan, with new measures expected soon. Security has also been increased at major events like Paris Blockchain Week. The government is shifting from simple alerts to organized protection, treating crypto as a sensitive asset and addressing the growing threat of physical attacks.