Crypto wrench attacks steal more than $30M so far in 2026: Chainalysis

While only 12 of 46 documented attempts resulted in payment, data leaks and attacks on relatives are widening the physical risks facing crypto holders.

Success rate of crypto wrench attacks by year. Source: Chainalysis

France’s surge

According to Chainalysis, France recorded 30 publicly known incidents by midyear, compared with 19 throughout 2025. The report noted that French authorities have counted more than 70 incidents, indicating the actual total may be substantially higher.

Related: Spain arrests suspect in 2025 kidnapping of Ledger co-founder

Government response

In July, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez put the first-half count at 77