IRL crypto threats: Physical “wrench attacks” have led to over $100 million in losses since January alone
CryptoSlate
Criminal groups are increasingly using physical violence and coercion to force crypto holders to surrender their digital assets, resulting in massive financial losses.Summary
Physical extortion, known as “wrench attacks,” has led to over $100 million in losses for crypto investors in the first four months of 2026. As digital security measures become more robust, criminals are shifting toward physical coercion—such as kidnapping and assault—to bypass encryption and force transfers. France has emerged as a central hub for these incidents, which are often facilitated by data leaks and the exposure of personal information. While exchanges like Binance are implementing withdrawal delays to deter attackers, security experts warn that crypto holders must now prioritize physical safety and personal security alongside traditional cybersecurity practices.
(Source：CryptoSlate)