Violent crypto robberies on the rise: Six attacks that targeted investors

A surge in violent crimes targeting high-profile cryptocurrency holders has alarmed the industry. Jameson Lopp’s GitHub repository tracking these “wrench attacks” reports 22 incidents in 2025 alone, highlighting a disturbing trend of escalating violence and sophistication. Law enforcement often intervenes, but successful attacks resulting in serious injury or death are increasing.

Several high-profile cases illustrate this concerning trend. In January, Ledger founder David Balland and his wife were kidnapped, with Balland suffering hand mutilation. Nine suspects were arrested following a ransom payment and subsequent investigation. In a separate incident, a Korean Bitcoin trader, Taehwa Kim, was carjacked and held for three days, although his cryptocurrency remained untouched.

Streamer Amouranth faced an armed robbery attempt in March, claiming to have shot one assailant who targeted her cryptocurrency holdings. A Spanish businessman was kidnapped and held for ransom in São Paulo, escaping only after being drugged and utilizing a strategic opportunity. The daughter and grandson of Paymium co-founder Pierre Noizat narrowly escaped a kidnapping attempt in Paris thanks to bystander intervention.

Another Paris kidnapping involved the abduction and finger mutilation of the father of a French cryptocurrency entrepreneur, leading to a 5 million euro crypto ransom demand. Five arrests followed the victim’s rescue. The similarities between this case and the Balland kidnapping suggest a possible connection, prompting investigations into potential links between the perpetrators.

This escalating violence has prompted responses from both industry players and authorities. Blockchain insurance firm Native notes a shift in tactics, with attackers targeting individuals at home. The French Interior Minister met with cryptocurrency professionals to address the rising crime rate, signifying a growing need for enhanced personal security measures within the cryptocurrency community. The future of cryptocurrency will likely involve a heightened focus on both asset security and personal safety.