France reports surge in crypto-linked kidnappings and extortion, announces tougher security response

France has reported 77 crypto-linked cases this year involving kidnapping, unlawful detention, extortion or attempted crimes, up from 45 in 2025, according to Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. Nuñez said the incidents are serious and that industry concerns are justified, while noting that emergency measures introduced over the past year have started to show results, including arrests tied to incidents or preventive operations ^{[1] [2] [3]}.

As the number of reported incidents reaches 77, French officials say they are preparing a tougher security response for the crypto sector. Cointelegraph reports the government is promising a “more ambitious” three-part plan to reinforce security measures, following reports of “wrench” attacks and related violence ^{[3] [4]}.

The reported increase has led France to expand security planning and enforcement actions targeting crypto-linked extortion and kidnapping cases ^{[1] [3]}.