A new kidnapping operation linked to cryptocurrencies shakes France

France has recently witnessed the tenth kidnapping incident related to cryptocurrencies this year, in a troubling rise of crimes targeting digital asset holders. In the latest of these incidents, a 23-year-old man was kidnapped in the Maison-Alfort area, a suburb of Paris, where he was forced to hand over 5,000 euros along with sensitive information related to his digital wallet.

Although the amount of cryptocurrency in his wallet has not been disclosed, the incident is part of a series of attacks that have increasingly alarmed French authorities. Security forces are currently investigating the incident, and no arrests have been made so far.

This crime comes just days after authorities announced the dismantling of a gang specializing in cryptocurrency crimes, which was active from Morocco. However, it is believed that the gang is either still operational or that there are other criminals following in its footsteps, indicating a continuation of this dangerous trend.

Notably, France appears to be one of the most affected countries in Europe by this wave, amid calls to tighten security measures around the use of cryptocurrencies and to protect their users. Despite government efforts, the security response remains insufficient in confronting this new type of crime that blends technology and violence.