Violent crypto thefts totaled about $30 million in the first half of 2026, with the year possibly surpassing 2025’s record of $58 million, according to Chainalysis.

Chainalysis says 46 violent crypto-related incidents globally through late June 2026, up from 40 in the same period of 2025, including wrench attacks such as kidnappings, home invasions, and hostage situations.

Criminals attacked crypto holders physically for over $30 million in H1 2026, signaling a potential year-end total that could exceed 2025’s record.

Most victims are local residents rather than tourists, suggesting reconnaissance and planning rather than opportunistic crime.

France’s surge is linked to data breaches exposing holder records, including a tax official allegedly selling files, and a Waltio breach adding about 50,000 records.

Part of the surge is attributed to alleged misuse of French tax records and a breach at Waltio exposing roughly 50,000 users’ data.

France’s anti-organized-crime unit has arrested about 200, with 88 indictments and 75 suspects in pretrial detention, signaling a strong crackdown.

The attack pattern is shifting toward home invasions (37% of incidents in 2026) and kidnappings (52%), with family members involved in 25%–30% of cases globally and over 40% in France.

Globally, 2026 shows increased home invasions and kidnappings, with attackers increasingly targeting victims’ families and associates.

Wrench attacks are rising risks to physical safety, homes, and families of crypto holders, beyond asset management concerns.

Operational security for holders is urged, including not publicizing wealth online or tying holdings to real identities to reduce targeting.

Investigators warn that databases with sensitive holder information remain prime targets, with attackers breaching central repositories to exploit leaked data.