In 2025, crypto holders have been increasingly targeted by physical attacks. Called “wrench attacks,” these incidents involve thefts where criminals use coercion to gain access to crypto wallets. The phenomenon is experiencing a clear progression, particularly in Europe.
In brief
- Physical attacks against crypto holders have increased sharply, particularly in France.
- Crypto security now requires physical and insurance measures, in addition to digital protections.
A 75% increase in attacks targeting crypto-asset holders
According to a report published by CertiK, the number of violent crypto attacks increased by 75% between 2024 and 2025. In total, 72 incidents have been confirmed worldwide for damages estimated at $41 million. France has 19 cases, the highest proportion (ahead of the United States).
These attacks take different forms: home hackings, kidnappings, direct threats, psychological pressure on loved ones… Some criminals have even had use of honey pots (fake love profiles) to trap victims.
The objective remains the same: to obtain access to seed sentences or physical wallets.
According to CertiKthis is a technical paradox. Despite improving digital security measures, the human factor remains vulnerable to physical coercion. There private key protection therefore becomes a global issue for any crypto investor.
Better protect your crypto assets against physical threats
To deal with this growing risk, some crypto market players are starting to adapt. Companies like Lloyd's of London, for example, now offer crypto insurance covering this type of attack. These solutions aim to respond to a new form of digital crime, hybrid and difficult to anticipate.
For its part, CertiK recommends several good practices :
- use diversionary crypto wallets;
- physically separate the seed phrase from the storage hardware;
- avoid the distribution of screenshots containing sensitive information;
- prefer multi-signature architectures (especially for high-volume accounts).
In reality, these figures underline an important point: the crypto security can no longer be limited to software devices. It now includes the physical protection of users, in particular those whose identity or assets are publicly exposed.
In any case, the increase in crypto attacks reveals a change in risk in the world of digital assets. The storage of cryptocurrencies now involves global thinking, which goes beyond technical considerations alone.
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