recent report highlights a concerning surge in crypto-related kidnappings, with the United States and France emerging as primary targets. Since 2019, the U.S. has recorded 48 such incidents, while Europe has seen 59 cases over the same period. Notably, France has experienced a sharp increase in 2025, with six reported cases, three of which occurred in Paris.
These crimes often involve sophisticated tactics, including physical threats and torture, to extract cryptocurrency credentials from victims. For instance, in New York, a 28-year-old Italian tourist was kidnapped and tortured for weeks by a cryptocurrency investor seeking access to his Bitcoin wallet. Similarly, in Paris, the daughter and grandson of a cryptocurrency executive narrowly escaped a kidnapping attempt by a masked gang.
The rise in such incidents underscores the need for heightened security measures among cryptocurrency investors and their families. Experts advise maintaining a low profile, avoiding public discussions about crypto holdings, and implementing robust personal security protocols to mitigate risks associated with physical threats targeting digital assets.
