Shocking Rise in Violent Crypto Robberies: Six Brutal Attacks Targeting Investors

As cryptocurrency values climb and adoption grows, a disturbing trend is emerging: a rise in violent physical attacks targeting individuals known or perceived to hold significant crypto assets. These are not just digital threats; they are real-world violent crypto robberies, leaving authorities and the crypto community deeply concerned about personal safety. This escalating crypto crime includes home invasions, kidnappings, and brutal assaults, moving beyond online scams to physical confrontation.

Why Are Violent Crypto Robberies Increasing?

The increasing value and public profile of cryptocurrency holders have unfortunately made them attractive targets for criminals. Unlike traditional assets, crypto can be transferred quickly and is often difficult to trace once moved. This makes compelling a holder to hand over their private keys or wallet access through force a potentially lucrative crime. Jameson Lopp’s data, tracking these incidents, recorded 22 “$5 wrench” attacks – a term for violent methods used to extract crypto – in 2025 alone. While law enforcement sometimes intervenes successfully, a growing number of these crypto attacks have resulted in severe harm or even death. The recent surge, particularly highlighted by incidents in France, has prompted official government responses to address the threat to crypto investor security.

Notable Crypto Attacks That Shocked the Community

The year 2025 has seen several high-profile cases that underscore the severity of the threat. These violent crypto robberies demonstrate a disturbing willingness by perpetrators to use extreme force.

One alarming case involved the founder of hardware wallet provider Ledger. David Balland and his wife were kidnapped from their home. They were held separately, and kidnappers demanded a large crypto ransom, reportedly mutilating Balland’s hand to pressure the company. A significant police operation involving hundreds of officers led to their rescue and the arrest of multiple suspects, although a portion of the ransom was reportedly paid and tracked.

In another incident, a Korean Bitcoin trader attempting to sell his Lamborghini in the Philippines became a victim. Meeting a supposed buyer, the trader was forced into a vehicle and held for three days. While his crypto remained safe, the attackers stole his car, luxury watch, and other personal items before abandoning him.

The line between online presence and physical danger was blurred for streamer Amouranth. After publicly displaying her substantial crypto holdings, her home was allegedly invaded by armed assailants demanding cryptocurrency. The situation escalated, reportedly leading to a physical confrontation and shots fired before the attackers fled.

The Brutal Reality of Kidnapping Crypto Holders

Several recent cases highlight the specific danger of kidnapping crypto holders for ransom. This particularly heinous form of violent crypto robbery involves abduction and often torture to extort digital assets.

In São Paulo, Brazil, a Spanish businessman was kidnapped by individuals posing as police. Held for a week, his captors demanded a $50 million crypto ransom. The victim managed a daring escape, leading to an arrest and seizure of weapons.

Paris has unfortunately seen multiple such incidents. The daughter and grandson of the founder of French exchange Paymium were targeted in an attempted kidnapping on a Paris street. They narrowly escaped when passersby intervened, though they sustained injuries.

Tragically, the father of another French crypto entrepreneur was successfully kidnapped in Paris. Taken miles away, he suffered a brutal attack where his finger was severed. A video was sent to his son demanding 5 million euros in crypto. Police successfully rescued the victim after two days, arresting several individuals. Authorities noted chilling similarities in the methods used in this case and the Ledger founder kidnapping, suggesting potential links in organized crypto crime.

Addressing the Growing Threat to Crypto Investor Security

These violent crypto attacks have sent shockwaves through the industry. Experts note a shift from targeting executives abroad to planned attacks on individuals in their homes. This escalating crypto crime necessitates a re-evaluation of security measures.

Authorities are taking notice. The French Ministry of the Interior held a meeting with crypto professionals to discuss the recent uptick in violent crime targeting industry figures, signaling official concern and a potential push for coordinated responses to enhance crypto investor security.

For those involved in the crypto space, the focus is no longer solely on securing digital wallets and private keys from online threats. The physical safety of individuals and their families has become a critical component of overall security planning. The trend of violent crypto robberies means personal security is now just as vital as asset security in the evolving landscape of the crypto world.

The rise in violent crypto attacks is a stark reminder that success in the digital asset space can attract dangerous real-world attention. The cases highlighted demonstrate the brutal reality of this growing crypto crime. As the industry matures, addressing physical security and collaborating with law enforcement to combat the kidnapping of crypto holders and other violent threats will be paramount to protecting the community.