#Crypto Crime Surge: Kidnappings Rise Amid Soaring Ransom Demands

A recent kidnapping in Paris has once again highlighted the growing threat facing individuals linked to cryptocurrency. On May 3, French police rescued the father of a crypto entrepreneur who had been held for ransom. Five suspects were arrested during the raid, with reports from Le Monde and Le Parisien revealing the kidnappers demanded €5–7 million (up to $7.9 million) for his release.

The victim co-owns a Malta-based crypto marketing firm. Due to safety concerns, identities remain undisclosed. This case closely mirrors the January 2025 abduction of Ledger co-founder David Balland, also held in France for a crypto ransom before being freed by law enforcement.

Unfortunately, such incidents are becoming more frequent. In November 2024, WonderFi CEO Dean Skurka was kidnapped in Toronto and forced to pay $1 million in crypto. In February 2025, six people in Chicago were charged after abducting a family and their nanny, demanding $15 million in cryptocurrency. The FBI confirmed the suspects had tricked the family by posing as repair workers.

In another disturbing case, streamer Amouranth was targeted during a home invasion in March 2025, where armed attackers demanded access to her crypto assets. Four suspects were arrested.

These escalating crimes reflect a dangerous pattern: crypto wealth is making individuals high-profile targets. Experts and authorities are urging those in the industry to strengthen their personal security as global ransom demands continue to rise.