As cryptocurrency values soar and more individuals embrace digital wealth, Physical threats to crypto owners disturbing trend is emerging—criminals are turning to physical violence, not just cyberattacks, to steal crypto assets. In 2025, a surge of brutal “wrench attacks,” kidnappings, and extortion attempts targeting crypto holders has set a new high for real-world threats in the industry.
A Terrifying Upward Trend
According to Chainalysis data, 2025 is on track to record twice as many physical attacks on crypto owners as any previous year, with nearly 29 documented incidents reported in just the first half. These attacks include kidnapping, torture, and hostage situations—marking a severe escalation in targeting methods.
High-Profile Cases Around the World
- New York: An Italian crypto entrepreneur was allegedly kidnapped and tortured over 17 days in a SoHo townhouse, with his captors committing horrific acts—ranging from electrocution to chainsaw threats—in their quest for his Bitcoin access.
- France: Multiple targeted attacks on crypto executives and their families have been reported—sometimes involving dismemberment as a form of coercion. These include high-profile kidnappings in Paris that prompted law enforcement crackdowns.
- AP News: A second crypto investor surrendered in the Manhattan torture case, underscoring the growing complexity and brutality of these schemes.
What Fuels These Attacks?
- Rising Cryptocurrency Prices: Higher asset values raise the stakes for criminals. Chainalysis reports a direct correlation between Bitcoin’s rising price and increased violent attacks.
- Stolen Personal Information: Personal data such as identity, addresses, or transaction histories of crypto users usually leak through KYC databases or exchange security breaches, which leave them at risk of organized criminals.
How Crypto Owners Can Protect Themselves
- Guard Personal Information: Avoid sharing crypto holdings, wallet details, or travel plans online. Rotate the wallet addresses and use pseudonyms.
- Top Priority Safe Keeping: Store money in multi signature wallets or cold storage to avert compromised transfers.
- Travel and Public Safety: Handle / transport crypto discreetly. Consider privacy-enhancing measures when traveling or attending events.
- Insurance Solutions: Some providers now offer coverage for crypto-related physical extortion—though affordability remains an issue for many.
Law Enforcement Responses
Authorities in the U.S. and Europe are increasingly responding to these threats with force:
- France’s response to serial crypto-targeted attacks includes dedicated investigations and security protocols.
- In the U.S., high-profile arrests and prosecutions—like those of John Woeltz and William Duplessie—signal growing government attention to crypto violence.
Conclusion
The crypto owners should be aware that today, there are threats that extend beyond digital exploitation. Intangible risk includes physical threats such as kidnapping, torture, and extortion, which are very threatening to the investors and their families. It is essential to have an all-encompassing security approach that will reinforce personal and online defense.