Against the backdrop of the recent attack on Coinbase and attempts to abduct some traders in Europe, cryptocurrency investors have begun to massively invest not only in digital assets but also in their own physical security. Market participants are increasingly turning to private security agencies for bodyguards, armored cars, and are requesting constant monitoring of threats online.
In particular, the company Infinite Risks International, based in Amsterdam, has recorded an increase in the number of clients concerned about potential attacks. Managing Director Jethro Pilman noted that investors are beginning to see protection as a mandatory part of their activities: 'They understand that reasonable safety measures are no longer an option but a necessity.'
The recent data leak from the Coinbase exchange has severely exacerbated the situation. Hackers gained access to addresses, account balances, and other confidential client data. This occurred simultaneously with an unsuccessful attempt to abduct the daughter and grandson of the French director of a crypto company, which caused real alarm in the community.
Although Coinbase stated that less than 1% of users were affected, compromised data has already begun to be used to defraud clients. Some trusting investors handed over their private keys, unaware of the fraud. Due to the fear of becoming targets for abductions, many refused to comment, fearing for their lives.
Coinbase spent $6.2 million last year on the security of CEO Brian Armstrong—more than JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, and Nvidia spent on the security of their executives combined. According to reports, Circle allocated $800,000 for the protection of CEO Jeremy Allaire, while Robinhood spent $1.6 million on the security of Vlad Tenev.
The problem is not limited to France. Security expert Jameson Lopp's database already counts over 20 cases of physical violence and abductions of cryptocurrency individuals just in 2025. One of the most high-profile cases involved Ledger co-founder David Ballan in January.
French authorities have already responded: Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau promised to introduce an emergency support hotline for the crypto industry and special briefings from elite police units. Security has also been strengthened at the summer EthCC conference in Cannes.