Crypto kidnappings in France raise fears after NFT Paris cancelled

France has recorded more than 20 kidnappings and violent attacks targeting crypto professionals and their families since January 2025.

Four attempted kidnappings were reported within four days in early January 2026, intensifying alarm across the Web3 community.

Incidents included home invasions, abductions and assaults aimed at extracting cryptocurrency keys and assets from victims.

French police have foiled some plots and arrested suspects, but many perpetrators remain at large.

Industry figures warned that alleged leaks of taxpayer data may have enabled criminals to identify crypto holders.

We’re now at four kidnapping attempts in four days in France after finding out a government employee was giving sponsors information on crypto taxpayers.

Farokh said.

NFT Paris and RWA Paris 2026 were cancelled on January 5, with organisers citing market conditions and rising costs.

Sponsors expressed frustration over non-refundable expenses following the abrupt cancellation.

The real reason why NFT Paris was cancelled.

Arthemort said, pointing to the broader security crisis facing the crypto sector.

Security experts urged crypto holders to limit public exposure and avoid sharing wallet information.