France vows tougher action as crypto wrench attacks reach 77
France promises tougher response after crypto wrench attacks surged to 77 kidnapping, extortion or attempted extortion cases in the first half of 2026. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez told industry group ADAN that a more ambitious three-part security plan will expand intelligence-sharing, deepen government–industry cooperation, and improve cross-border coordination against violent crypto extortion.
So-called wrench attacks use physical threats or violence to force victims to hand over digital assets. France has become one of the biggest hot spots for this crime, and the pace is accelerating. Nuñez confirmed 77 incidents so far this year, up sharply from 45 recorded across all of 2025, according to local outlet BFM Business.
That pace works out to nearly three attacks per week in 2026. With roughly 11% of French people owning cryptocurrencies — about 7.3 million holders, per ADAN — officials face mounting pressure to shield a fast-growing holder community.
Key Takeaways
- France recorded 77 crypto-linked kidnapping, extortion or attempted extortion cases in the first half of 2026, versus 45 in all of 2025.
- Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez pledged a more ambitious three-part plan covering intelligence, ADAN partnership, and operational coordination.
- Existing alert tools have drawn 724 sign-ups and contributed to 200 arrests, including one case resolved within eight hours.
- Wrench attacks target holders and professionals with physical coercion to steal cryptocurrency.
- France has become one of the biggest hot spots for wrench attacks as case counts climb.
Why is France seeing so many crypto wrench attacks?
Wrench attacks rely on intimidation rather than hacking. Criminals identify crypto holders or industry figures and use kidnapping, assault or threats to compel wallet transfers. France has become one of the biggest hot spots for this crime, with millions of residents holding digital assets.
Nuñez addressed the Association for the Development of Digital Assets on Tuesday, telling members that their concern is legitimate. He said the 77 cases logged since January are serious matters that reflect a worsening trend.
What is France's three-part security plan?
Nuñez promised a more ambitious plan built around three pillars. First, stronger intelligence-sharing, because criminal networks are often based abroad. Second, a deeper partnership with ADAN to reinforce security across the sector.
The third pillar is better operational coordination between French security services and international partners. Nuñez said the package builds on emergency measures that have already produced 200 arrests.
What protections already exist for crypto holders?
Earlier this year, French authorities launched a dedicated prevention platform and a rapid-alert and protection system for crypto holders and professionals. Nuñez said 724 people had signed up so far.
In one recent case, a victim used an emergency identification hotline on Friday; an attacker was arrested within eight hours. Nuñez cited that outcome as proof the current toolkit can work when victims act quickly.
For broader coverage of digital-asset security and market risks, see our Fintech & Crypto Alerts section. Full details on the minister's announcement are available via Cointelegraph.
What should crypto holders watch next?
Nuñez promised more government support for the crypto sector as wrench attacks keep rising. The plan's intelligence and international coordination elements target organizers who may operate outside France.
Holder groups will be watching how the ADAN partnership develops and whether sign-ups to the rapid-alert system continue to grow beyond the current 724 registrations.