The crypto world just received another stark reminder of the dangers that come with wealth, influence, and visibility.
In a chilling incident in Paris, the daughter and 2-year-old granddaughter of an unnamed crypto exchange CEO were nearly abducted by three masked men. Disguised as delivery workers, the attackers attempted to force them into a fake van. The child’s father intervened and was injured while fighting off the assailants. One of the attackers dropped a firearm during the altercation before fleeing. Thankfully, nearby bystanders stepped in, preventing what could have been a devastating outcome.
Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated case.
The co-founder of Ledger, a popular crypto wallet company, was previously kidnapped and tortured. In another alarming instance, a crypto founder’s father was abducted and held for ransom.
These events highlight a growing threat: the physical safety risks faced by those in the crypto industry. While online anonymity is often seen as a privacy preference, for many in the space, it’s a crucial layer of protection.
As the crypto sector grows and more wealth is concentrated among a few, personal security is no longer a distant concern it's a daily reality. This incident serves as a grave reminder that in crypto, visibility can come at a dangerous price.