France battles surge in crypto kidnappings

France reported 77 crypto-linked kidnappings in 2026, up from 45 last year. About 200 suspects were arrested. The government has launched a new security plan to address the rising threat to crypto holders.

France has seen a sharp increase in crypto-related kidnappings and extortion, with 77 cases reported in the first half of 2026, up from 45 in 2025. Authorities have arrested around 200 suspects, yet the frequency of attacks continues to climb. Notably, France now accounts for about 70% of global "wrench attacks," which are physical assaults targeting crypto holders. Ransom demands typically range from €700,000 to over $1 million in Bitcoin, and victims have included executives from major crypto firms. Analysts link this surge to data breaches at tax offices and crypto tax providers, which exposed the identities and holdings of crypto investors. In response, the French government has introduced a three-part security plan. This initiative focuses on intelligence sharing, partnerships with industry groups, and enhanced operational coordination to better protect digital asset holders and address the escalating threat.