Physical Crypto Theft Is Rising, With France the Main Hotspot
Chainalysis has tracked more than $30 million stolen in violent crypto attacks this year, with kidnappings and home invasions dominating cases.
Violent attacks on crypto holders are increasing even as a smaller share of attempts succeeds. Chainalysis says more than $30 million had been stolen through physical coercion by mid-2026, compared with a record $58 million for all of 2025.
The firm counted 46 public incidents by late June, up from 40 at the same point last year. Twelve of this year's cases were successful, a 26% success rate compared with 49% in 2025 and 67% in 2024. When attempted, coerced, blocked or frozen transfers are included, the value targeted this year reaches about $107 million.
Kidnappings accounted for 52% of incidents and home invasions for 37%. France has emerged as the most visible hotspot: Chainalysis identified 30 public cases through midyear, while the French interior minister has said authorities documented more than 70. The divergence underlines a wider data problem, because many victims do not report attacks publicly.
Why it matters
Crypto security is no longer only a software and custody issue. As asset ownership becomes easier to identify, personal data breaches and public displays of wealth can translate into physical risk. Falling success rates suggest better response and asset-freezing mechanisms, but the higher number of attempts shows the threat is spreading.
Source: Chainalysis