As cryptocurrency continues its global expansion, a dark side has emerged: targeted violence against those profiting most from the industry. In recent months, a disturbing wave of kidnappings and ransom attempts aimed at crypto executives has forced many in the sector to take their personal security far more seriously.
According to a recent Bloomberg report, private security firms are experiencing a noticeable surge in demand, particularly from high-profile crypto investors and entrepreneurs. Infinite Risks International, an Amsterdam-based security company, confirmed that more crypto professionals are not just inquiring about but actively signing up for long-term bodyguard protection.
The shift toward enhanced security follows several alarming incidents in France, which has become a focal point for organized criminal groups targeting individuals known to hold significant crypto wealth. So far in 2025, at least three separate kidnapping attempts have been reported — and those are just the ones that made headlines.
In response, French law enforcement agencies have begun rolling out special protective measures tailored to the crypto community. These include direct access to emergency police contacts for victims and their families, specialized safety briefings, and ongoing guidance on minimizing public exposure. Advisories have also been issued urging crypto investors to avoid flaunting wealth — such as wearing branded merchandise or discussing assets publicly — in an effort to make themselves less of a target.
One of the most shocking cases this year involved David Balland, co-founder of the hardware wallet company Ledger. Balland was abducted in January 2025 and held captive for several days. French authorities managed to track and rescue him, but the incident sent a chilling message to the crypto industry: no one is immune, no matter how security-conscious they think they are.
This wasn’t an isolated case. In 2024, a crypto entrepreneur’s father was taken hostage in a Paris suburb. According to Le Parisien, the kidnappers resorted to horrific tactics, reportedly severing one of the victim’s fingers as part of their ransom demand. The level of brutality and calculated violence is deeply troubling, and it signals a new level of organization among the perpetrators.
More recently, on May 13, another horrifying event unfolded. Pierre Noizat, CEO and co-founder of French crypto exchange Paymium, witnessed an attempted abduction of his daughter and grandson in broad daylight. Several masked attackers ambushed them on the street, trying to force the family members into a van. Thankfully, the daughter and a nearby passerby managed to fight back, fending off the attackers and likely saving their lives.
These high-profile attacks have sent shockwaves throughout the crypto community. The fact that these incidents happened not in the shadows, but in public and populated areas, suggests an audacious level of confidence from the criminals involved. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has since convened emergency meetings with key industry leaders to discuss stronger security protocols.
As cryptocurrency becomes increasingly mainstream, wealth is no longer just numbers on a blockchain — it’s become a target painted on the backs of those who hold it. The message is clear: with great gains come new risks, and in today’s climate, vigilance isn’t optional — it’s essential.
