- Crypto-related kidnappings have surged in 2025, with Asia now leading globally as attackers shift from digital hacks to physical threats.
- France faces a spike in high-profile crypto abductions, with minors among those arrested in connection with coordinated attacks.
- Rising Bitcoin prices in 2025 correlate with a global uptick in violent crypto crimes, as criminals increasingly demand ransoms in BTC.
Crypto kidnapping cases are rising globally, with Europe and North America leading the trend. According to Binance’s latest report, the United States has seen the highest number of reported incidents since 2019. Despite the recent surge in France, Europe remains the most affected region, recording 59 cases in the past six years. North America follows closely with 48 incidents. Notably, Asia has now surpassed both, recording 62 incidents, primarily across Southeast Asian nations. These attacks have evolved from digital scams to violent, real-world abductions. Criminals increasingly use force, targeting individuals believed to hold substantial crypto assets.
France and the Rise of High-Profile Attacks
France has experienced a sharp rise in such cases, with six reported incidents—three of which occurred in 2025 alone. Victims include crypto executives, exchange staff, business owners, and even their family members. Moreover, some tourists have also been targeted under suspicion of carrying digital wallets. In one of the year’s most serious incidents, Ledger co-founder David Balland and his wife were abducted from their French residence in January. French police rescued the couple days later after a coordinated operation.
Additionally, earlier this month, armed attackers attempted to kidnap the daughter and grandchild of Pierre Noizat, CEO of Paymium. That daylight assault in Paris failed after bystanders intervened. Furthermore, another major case in May involved the kidnapping of a crypto entrepreneur’s father. The ransom demanded ranged between €5 million and €7 million. French police have since arrested at least 12 people, including several minors. These individuals face charges ranging from kidnapping to criminal conspiracy. Authorities believe a coordinated criminal network may be orchestrating these attacks using social media to recruit members.
Physical Threats Follow Bitcoin’s Market Surge
Binance notes a direct correlation between Bitcoin’s price and physical crypto crimes. As Bitcoin hit a new all-time high in 2025, attacks also surged. So far this year, 15 abductions have been documented. Many involved ransom demands in Bitcoin. Consequently, criminals now prioritize violence over hacking. They believe physical threats yield faster access to digital assets.
