Criminal groups are increasingly using physical threats to steal digital assets, showing a troubling global trend since 2019. The United States leads all countries with the highest number of crypto-related kidnapping cases reported since that year.
Despite a recent increase in kidnappings in France, the U.S. has recorded more consistent incidents over a longer period. Overall, Europe has experienced 59 cases of crypto kidnappings over the past six years, making it the most targeted region.
North America trailed just behind with 48 of these, predominantly in large U.S. and Canadian cities. Asia saw the highest total, reporting 62 cases, with Southeast Asia witnessing the majority of these violent encounters.
Many victims were tourists, traders, business owners, or family members believed to be tied to digital asset management. France alone saw six crypto-related kidnapping cases recently, including three shocking abductions that occurred in 2025.
In January, David Balland, co-founder of Ledger, and his wife were abducted from their French home by armed men.
Crypto wealth sparks rise in kidnappings
Earlier this month, criminals in Paris targeted the daughter and grandchild of Paymium CEO, highlighting growing concerns. In New York, the authorities apprehended John Woeltz for reportedly holding an Italian tourist hostage within a Manhattan luxury apartment.
These incidents demonstrate that attackers now target victims offline, opting to use direct violence instead of digital theft and online scams. Binance statistics also reflect increased cases when cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin reach new record valuations.
At least 15 cases of ransom demand through payments in Bitcoin were documented by authorities until 2025. Victims tend to include well-known crypto executives, exchange workers, and investors who are assumed to possess large asset portfolios.
Binance also cited a noticeable correlation between increased crypto prices and physical attacks, substantiating a troubling worldwide correlation. Criminals now see digital wealth as a reason to kidnap, which increases the risk of those engaged in crypto finance.
