France To Boost Crypto Security Response As Wrench Attacks Reach 77 Cases

French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed 77 crypto-related kidnapping and extortion incidents in the first half of 2026, already surpassing the 45 recorded for all of 2025. Speaking to the Association for the Development of Digital Assets, Nuñez acknowledged the growing threat and pledged stronger government support for the crypto sector.

Rapid Alert System Shows Early Results

France’s emergency alert and protection platform for crypto holders has drawn 724 sign-ups since launching earlier this year. Nuñez said the measures have led to 200 arrests, including one suspect caught within eight hours after a victim used an emergency hotline.

Three-Part Security Plan Announced

Nuñez outlined a more ambitious plan focused on stronger international intelligence sharing, closer cooperation with ADAN, and better coordination between security agencies, noting that many criminal networks operate from abroad.

France Remains A Global Hotspot

Blockchain security firm CertiK reported wrench attacks rose 41% globally in the first four months of 2026, with most occurring in Europe. CertiK named France the epicenter, citing the concentration of crypto executives, a culture of public exposure within the community, and repeated data breaches.

Ledger co-founder David Balland was kidnapped and later rescued by police in January 2025, following a 2020 breach that leaked over 270,000 customer records.