Physical crypto attacks have already cost victims $30 million in 2026

Physical robberies targeting cryptocurrency holders are rising sharply. In the first half of 2026, losses from so-called wrench attacks have already exceeded $30 million, and if the current pace continues, the annual total will surpass the record of $58 million set in 2025. That is according to a report by Chainalysis. France leads the way as the country with the most incidents.

In brief:

• Losses from physical crypto attacks already exceed $30 million in the first half of 2026
• France is the hardest hit country worldwide, partly due to a data breach at the tax authority
• Criminals are increasingly targeting family members of crypto holders

France hardest hit after data breach

Of all countries dealing with crypto-related physical violence, France now stands head and shoulders above the rest. Before 2025, the country counted only a handful of known incidents, but that year the number rose to 19. By mid-2026, 30 publicly known cases have been recorded, although the real figure is almost certainly higher.

French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said in late June 2026 that the authorities have now documented more than 70 crypto-related violent incidents. In response, he announced measures to better protect people in the crypto sector, including a rapid identification and warning system for individuals at particular risk. A data breach at the French tax authority plays a role here: with data on wealthy crypto investors exposed, criminals were able to select victims more precisely.

Attacks spread and also affect family members

The attacks are no longer confined to the Paris region. In 2026, incidents have also been reported in cities such as Strasbourg, Marseille, Grenoble, Toulouse and Nantes, alongside numerous smaller towns where such crimes had not previously occurred.

Chainalysis also notes a shift in criminals’ tactics. Increasingly, the targets are not the crypto holders themselves but their family members. Home invasions and kidnappings make up a growing share of all cases. This ties in with broader concerns about the growing threat facing crypto holders in Europe. Total losses from wrench attacks over the years show a clear upward trend: from $5 million in 2017 to $90 million in 2022, a peak of $316 million in 2024 and $180 million in 2025.