Crypto wrench attacks steal $30 million, France leads 2026

A new report from blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis reveals that violent physical attacks targeting cryptocurrency holders are escalating globally, with criminals stealing more than $30 million in the first half of 2026. The firm documented 46 such incidents, often called "wrench attacks," through late June, putting the year on track to surpass the record $58 million stolen via these methods in 2025.

The attacks, which include home invasions, kidnappings, and hostage situations, exploit the fact that cryptocurrency can be transferred instantly and irreversibly under duress. While kidnappings remain the most common type, accounting for roughly half of incidents, home invasions have risen significantly to represent 37% of documented cases in 2026, up from 26% in 2023. Analysts note that home invasions allow criminals to confront victims in a controlled environment to compel transfers, whereas kidnappings require more complex logistics and expose attackers for longer periods.

France has emerged as the epicenter of this criminal wave. Chainalysis recorded 30 publicly known attacks in France by mid-2026, a sharp increase from 19 incidents throughout all of 2025. French Interior...