Crypto crime is getting violent: ‘wrench attacks’ jumped 75% in 2026

According to a new report by CertiK, physical attacks targeting cryptocurrency holders, known as "wrench attacks," jumped 75% in 2025, reaching 72 confirmed incidents globally. This shift indicates that physical violence has become a core threat, with physical assaults, including home invasions and kidnappings, increasing by 250%. Europe now accounts for over 40% of these incidents, led by France with 19 reported attacks. CertiK attributes this rise to organized crime groups targeting known crypto holders, exploiting the "Technical Paradox" where improved digital security makes direct physical coercion more cost-effective. With over $40 million in confirmed losses, the report stresses that personal safety must now be factored into crypto risk, prompting insurers like Lloyd’s of London to offer coverage for such attacks.

(Source：CoinDesk)