Global Rise in Physical Attacks on Crypto Owners and Identity‑Fraud Cases in Belgium

A CertiK study shows that physical burglaries have become the most common attack on crypto holders. In the first half of 2026, 52 verified incidents were recorded worldwide, causing about $124 million in losses, a sharp rise from the $10.5 million reported a year earlier. Home break‑ins surged from one to twenty cases, while kidnappings rose modestly and armed robberies fell. Criminals increasingly pressure victims or their families to hand over wallets or approve transactions, prompting CertiK to recommend measures such as multisignature wallets, transaction limits and approval delays.

In Belgium, identity‑fraud cases have also spiked. The Federal Public Service Interior reported 3,482 suspected cases in 2025, of which 401 were referred to prosecutors. The fraud often involves stolen identity cards used to obtain benefits or commit financial crimes. Authorities are expanding training for municipal officials and urging swift reporting of lost or stolen ID documents to curb further abuse.