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2026-09-07 22:43 UTC → 2026-09-10 19:22 UTC ·
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Cryptocurrency-related violent crime Rise in cryptocurrency-linked kidnappings in France
In the first half of 2026, The surge in violent “wrench” attacks targeting cryptocurrency holders increased globally, with cryptocurrency-related crimes in France emerging as a primary hotspot. Reports from blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis indicate that more than $30 million was stolen through 46 documented incidents worldwide through late June, with has evolved into a success rate significant trend of 26%, down from 49% in 2025. The total financial exposure, including attempted, blocked, kidnappings and recovered transfers, is estimated at $107 million. France extortions. The National Anti-Organized Crime Prosecutor's Office (PNACO) has emerged as recorded 135 kidnappings or attempted kidnappings linked to cryptocurrencies in the global epicenter for these crimes, recording 30 publicly known country. This represents a sharp upward trajectory compared to previous years, with parliamentary inquiries noting approximately 60 attacks in 2026, which surpasses the total recorded for the entire year of 2025. French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez stated that authorities have documented over 70 such incidents. Home invasions have become 2025 and 40 in 2024. Recent incidents illustrate the most frequent method, accounting for 37% increasing severity of recorded cases these tactics. In Nice, two masked men held a mother and overtaking kidnappings. This surge is linked son captive to steal a breach of tax-record data that exposed the identities and locations of high-net-worth individuals, facilitating “data-driven targeting.” Criminal groups utilize leaked databases, blockchain activity, doxxing, cryptocurrency account valued at $25,000, seizing passports and social media monitoring mobile devices to profile victims. Specific incidents highlight these risks. obtain access codes. In the Somme department, Ploudalmézeau, Finistère, four men were recently indicted following an agricultural worker and a banking executive April 20 attack where five family members were targeted by three separate groups of home invaders seeking approximately €1 million in cryptocurrency based on outdated tax and address information. held captive. During one attack, that incident, criminals extorted a resident was assaulted while the incident was partially streamed on Snapchat. An Amiens court recently sentenced two men to prison for their involvement digital wallet password, resulting in a third attempted break-in at loss of approximately 700,000 euros. The investigation into the property. Additionally, blockchain investigator ZachXBT linked Finistère case involved a French individual using the pseudonym M1llionz police operation with 40 military personnel. Criminal networks continue to approximately $667,000 stolen during two violent raids in April 2026. Following reports utilize “data-driven targeting,” aggregating information from tax management services, professional sites like LinkedIn, and social media to Tether, approximately $93,507 in stolen USDT was frozen. Recent data shows a rising trend identify individuals with significant digital wealth. This profiling allows organized crime groups to pinpoint victims involved in kidnappings and extortions. blockchain technology.