What are crypto “wrench attacks” and why are they increasing in France?

Wrench attacks involve using physical force or threats to make someone transfer their crypto assets. France has seen at least 41 such incidents this year, making it a global hotspot. The rise is linked to higher crypto adoption and the difficulty of reversing blockchain transactions.

Why is France experiencing more crypto-related kidnappings than other countries?

France has become a focal point due to a mix of factors, including data leaks, organised criminal networks, and visible crypto wealth. Authorities report incidents happening every two to three days. This concentration has pushed the government to increase security measures.

How do wrench attacks actually work in crypto?

Attackers physically target individuals and force them to unlock wallets or transfer funds. Unlike bank transfers, crypto transactions are irreversible once confirmed. This makes victims particularly vulnerable under coercion.

How are attackers identifying crypto holders to target?

Criminals are shifting from hacking wallets to profiling people. They analyse social media, public appearances, and leaked personal data to identify potential victims. This makes even mid-level holders a target.

Are only wealthy crypto investors at risk?

No, the pool of targets has expanded to include mid-level holders and even families. Attackers often rely on indirect signals rather than confirmed wealth. This means a wider range of crypto users face risk.

Why are these attacks becoming more violent?

As crypto prices rise, the potential payoff from a single attack increases. At the same time, improved digital security makes hacking harder, pushing criminals toward physical methods. This has led to more organised and aggressive attacks.

What role do data leaks and insiders play in these attacks?

In some cases, sensitive personal data has been leaked or sold, including by insiders. This information helps attackers identify and locate victims. It increases the precision and success rate of these crimes.

Is this trend happening globally or mainly in France?

While France is currently the epicentre, wrench attacks are rising globally. Verified incidents increased significantly in 2025, with a sharp rise in violent cases. However, many incidents likely go unreported.

France sees surge in crypto-linked wrench attacks

Written by Heidi Cuthbert Published Apr. 20 2026

France has recorded at least 41 crypto-related kidnappings this year, as so-called wrench attacks targeting digital asset holders become more frequent and violent.

Authorities said incidents are occurring roughly every two to three days, prompting heightened security measures and new prevention initiatives led by Interior Ministry officials.

“Every time a wrench attack is successful, it tells the world that crypto owners are juicy targets,”

Said crypto security researcher, Jameson Lopp.

The attacks involve physical coercion to force victims to transfer crypto, exploiting the irreversible nature of blockchain transactions once authorised.

Security experts warn attackers are shifting tactics from targeting wallets to profiling individuals, using social media, leaked data, and surveillance to identify victims.

France has emerged as a global hotspot, with researchers citing insider data leaks and organised criminal groups as contributing factors behind the rise.

The trend has intensified concerns around self-custody risks, with experts recommending safeguards such as multi-signature wallets and withdrawal limits to reduce exposure.