France is escalating its response to a disturbing trend of cryptocurrency-related kidnappings and wrench attacks. Jean-Didier Berger, minister delegate to the interior minister, announced new measures to protect investors from these violent crimes. The government is developing a more serious plan following recent incidents.
Authorities recently rescued a mother and child kidnapped in Burgundy by suspects demanding a significant crypto ransom. France has become a hotspot for wrench attacks, where victims are assaulted to force digital asset transfers. This year alone, 41 crypto-related kidnappings have been reported, averaging one every 2.5 days.
These attacks saw a 75% increase globally in 2025, with France accounting for the most incidents. Previous cases include a $1 million Bitcoin heist from a couple by fake police and the arrest of six individuals over the kidnapping of a magistrate for crypto ransom.