Kidnappings targeting cryptocurrency investors have significantly increased recently, with the United States and Europe being the main hotspots for these attacks. France has already arrested 12 suspects and is facing a growing threat that concerns not only investors but also authorities. What dangers do cryptocurrency investors face?
Rising Trend of Cryptocurrency Kidnappings: USA and Europe at Risk
According to a new report published by Binance, the trend of cryptocurrency-related kidnappings is on the rise, with the United States and France topping the list. The U.S. has recorded the most cases since 2019, with an increasing number of incidents linked to cryptocurrency prices and the growing interest in crypto investments. North America, specifically the U.S. and Canada, has reported a total of 48 cryptocurrency-related kidnappings in recent years.
Europe is not far behind, with 59 cases of cryptocurrency-related kidnappings in the past six years. France is among the most affected countries, with several incidents already reported in 2025, marking a concerning trend. A major issue is Asia, where 62 documented cases have been reported in Southeast Asia, highlighting the region's vulnerability to such crimes.
France on Alert: Authorities Respond to Growing Threats
Given the rising threat associated with cryptocurrencies, France has intensified its efforts to investigate and implement security measures against these crimes. Twelve suspects have been arrested due to the increasing number of kidnappings, some of which involved minors.
One of the most recent attempts to kidnap a cryptocurrency-related individual occurred on May 13th in Paris, when three men attempted to kidnap the family of Pierre Noizat, CEO of the French crypto exchange Paymium. The attempt failed due to the resistance of Noizat’s daughter and the intervention of bystanders, who filmed the incident. Another similar case occurred in May, when French authorities successfully rescued the father of a crypto marketing entrepreneur, who had been kidnapped and held for ransom ranging from 5 to 7 million euros.
Among the most severe cases in 2025 was the kidnapping of Ledger co-founder David Ballanda and his wife, which triggered a strong public reaction.
Concerning Approach to Public Information: What Makes Crypto Investors Easy Targets?
Cryptocurrencies are part of an open ecosystem, meaning that a lot of information, including wallet balances, transactions, and assets, is publicly accessible. This allows for easy tracking of high-net-worth individuals. MicroStrategy founder Michael Saylor recently stated that publishing proof of crypto reserves is "a bad idea." His words are especially relevant in the context of rising violence and crime related to cryptocurrencies. The use of advanced analytical tools that track specific wallets makes these individuals easy targets for kidnappers who can exploit publicly available information.
This new threat to crypto investors underscores how important it is to be cautious when sharing any information about investments and to protect personal and financial data.
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