Crypto Kidnappings Rise in France, Targeting Wealthy Investors

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Paris: France has seen more than 40 cases of kidnappings or hostage situations linked to cryptocurrency since January. This is a big increase compared to last year, and authorities are concerned. Criminals are targeting people involved in crypto to demand ransom money.

Since late 2024, many of these crimes have focused on wealthy individuals or their families who deal with digital currencies. Some cases involve big crypto businesses, while others target individuals who own crypto.

Police say the criminals use different methods. Often, the people planning the crimes are based in other countries, and those carrying them out sometimes don’t even know the target until the last moment.

These kinds of crimes were rare in 2024 but increased in 2025, with around 30 cases reported that year.

Recently, a woman and her 11-year-old son were kidnapped in Burgundy for a crypto ransom. Police rescued them within a day and arrested seven suspects.

In another case in Anglet on April 10, five people tried to kidnap a crypto investor but ended up targeting the wrong person. They stole valuables before being arrested later in Paris.

One shocking case in January 2025 involved David Balland, a co-founder of a major crypto company. His kidnappers cut off his finger and demanded ransom before releasing him. His girlfriend was also found tied up in a car.