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France to strengthen response as crypto wrench attacks hit 77
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- DeepHorus
France is ramping up its response to a surge in crypto wrench attacks, with Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez promising a more ambitious three-part plan to protect digital asset holders. The announcement follows the confirmation of 77 kidnapping, extortion, or attempted extortion incidents linked to cryptocurrencies in the first half of 2026, a sharp increase from 45 cases recorded throughout the entire previous year. Nuñez addressed the Association for the Development of Digital Assets (ADAN) on Tuesday, acknowledging the serious nature of these crimes and pledging stronger government support.
Crypto wrench attacks involve physical violence or threats to coerce victims into handing over their cryptocurrency holdings. France has emerged as a global hotspot for such crimes, with approximately 11% of the population—around 7.3 million people—owning digital assets, according to ADAN. Blockchain security firm CertiK reported in May that wrench attacks worldwide rose 41% in the first four months of 2026 compared to the same period last year, with France being the epicenter due to its concentration of major crypto companies and high-profile executives.
Earlier this year, French authorities launched a dedicated prevention platform and a rapid-alert and protection system for crypto holders and professionals, which has so far attracted 724 sign-ups, Nuñez said. Emergency measures have led to 200 arrests, including one recent attacker apprehended within eight hours after the victim used an emergency identification hotline. These efforts are part of a broader crackdown on crypto-related violence.
The new three-part plan will focus on stronger intelligence-sharing, as criminal networks often operate from abroad, a deeper partnership with ADAN, and better operational coordination between security services. Nuñez emphasized that the government is committed to a more ambitious approach to tackle the rising threat. The plan aims to disrupt both domestic and international criminal rings targeting crypto holders.
CertiK attributed France's vulnerability to several factors, including a "culture of flexing and voluntary doxxing" within the community and proven exposure from sensitive data leaks. Notable incidents include the January 2025 kidnapping of David Balland, co-founder of hardware wallet maker Ledger, who was held for ransom along with his partner before being rescued by police. The 2020 Ledger data breach, which leaked over 270,000 personal records, continues to fuel phishing and wrench attacks.
Industry reactions have been mixed, with some welcoming the government's proactive stance while others stress the need for stronger data protection laws. ADAN has called for closer collaboration between authorities and crypto firms to enhance security protocols. The rapid alert system has been praised as a useful tool, but experts caution that long-term solutions must address the root causes of doxxing and data breaches.
Looking ahead, France's enhanced security measures could serve as a model for other nations grappling with similar threats. However, the international nature of crypto crime requires cross-border cooperation. With wrench attacks on the rise globally, particularly in Europe, sustained vigilance and innovation in law enforcement strategies will be critical to protect the growing number of digital asset holders.
