Crypto-Targeted Kidnappings in France Overshadow NFT Paris Cancellation
Over 20 crypto-related kidnappings in France since early 2025 coincide with the cancellation of NFT Paris 2026 due to market collapse.Summary
The official cancellation of NFT Paris and RWA Paris 2026 on January 5, 2026, citing a global crypto market collapse and high costs, has been overshadowed by a severe wave of violence targeting the French crypto community. Since January 2025, France has seen over 20 kidnappings and violent attacks aimed at crypto professionals and their families, creating widespread fear. Recent incidents in early January 2026 included multiple attempted kidnappings, such as the theft of crypto USBs and the kidnapping of an engineer.
Industry figures suggest the security crisis is deeply linked to potential data leaks, with insider Farokh warning that a government employee may have shared taxpayer data with criminal sponsors, specifically targeting those who file crypto taxes. While French authorities have foiled some attempts, the persistent threat remains. Although organizers cited economic factors for the NFT Paris cancellation, insiders believe the escalating security crisis significantly contributed to the decision, highlighting the precarious environment where market pressures intersect with physical threats for the French Web3 sector.
(Source：BeInCrypto)