Gate News message, April 20 — France recorded at least 41 crypto-related kidnappings and home invasions in 2025, according to Interior Ministry officials, as security was tightened around major blockchain conferences amid a rise in so-called wrench attacks. The Interior Ministry is preparing new measures, while a prevention platform has already attracted thousands of registrations.
Globally, blockchain security firm CertiK and researcher Jameson Lopp verified 72 physical coercion incidents in 2025, up 75% from the prior year. France accounted for 19 of these cases—more than twice the total recorded in the United States. A wrench attack uses physical force to coerce victims into surrendering access to their digital assets. Victims are increasingly identified through social media, public appearances, leaked datasets, and follow-home surveillance.
The attacks have raised concerns about France’s goal to become a European crypto hub, with some executives hiring bodyguards and tightening home security. Proposals requiring crypto holders to declare assets have drawn pushback, as such a central registry could create a target list for criminals. Despite the physical nature of these crimes leaving evidence trails that may be simpler to investigate than online theft, the incidents continue to pose challenges for law enforcement and policymakers.
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