Vanessa Perrée from PNACO is sounding the alarm! Since 2024, crypto-kidnapping has spread in France like a new criminal wave. This phenomenon where individuals are kidnapped and tortured to extort cryptocurrencies has pushed the authorities to react… 88 people indicted. Decryption of a growing threat and solutions to protect holders of digital assets.
In brief
- 88 indicted in 12 cases, including more than 10 minors, for kidnapping and extortion of cryptos in France.
- 18 events in 2024, 67 in 2025, 47 in 2026: an upward curve of violence (torture, kidnapping, mutilation) linked to cryptos in France.
- Vanessa Perrée (PNACO) highlights the involvement of structured networks and calls for increased vigilance for players in the crypto sector.
Crypto-Rapt: Pnaco reveals a rapidly expanding crime wave
In a recent statement, Vanessa Perrée, prosecutor at the head of the National Anti-Organized Crime Prosecutor's Office (Pnaco), described crypto-kidnapping as a rapidly evolving criminal phenomenon. In 2026, the figures are clear: 88 people have been indicted, including more than 10 minors, in the context of 12 cases linked to kidnappings and sequestration for extortion of cryptocurrencies. A dazzling progression, with 18 done in 2024, 67 in 2025, and 47 in 2026.
The victims, often players in the crypto sector, suffer extreme violence: torture, beatings, and threats for hours. The emblematic case of Dompierre-sur-Mer, where a couple was forced to transfer 8 million euros, illustrates the brutality of these crimes. For Vanessa Perrée, this trend reflects the emergence of organized criminal networksspecifically targeting cryptocurrency holders. An alert which highlights the urgency of strengthening investor protection.
Crime: how to protect holders of bitcoin and other cryptos?
Faced with the rise of crypto-kidnappings, the protection of holders of cryptocurrencies, particularly bitcoin, is becoming an absolute priority. Indeed, judicial authorities such as the Central Office for the Fight against Organized Crime (OCLCO), are calling for strengthening the physical and digital security of investors. Here are some ways to protect yourself:
- Anonymity and discretion: Avoid publicly disclosing your cryptocurrency holdings;
- Reinforced security: Use cold wallets and advanced security protocols;
- Collaboration with authorities: Report any threats or attempts at extortion.
In addition, experts recommend diversifying your assets and not storing all of your funds on a single platform. Collective awareness is necessary to counter this growing threat and protect crypto market players.
The crypto-kidnapping in France reveals a dark side of the rise of cryptocurrencies. As authorities strengthen their response, the question remains: how to reconcile financial innovation and personal security? The debate is open, and the urgency is real.
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