A violent shift in crypto crime: ‘wrench attacks’ soar 75% in 2026

Crypto crime grew markedly more violent in 2025, as physical attacks aimed at stealing digital assets surged, according to a new report from blockchain security firm CertiK.

Incidents known as “wrench attacks,” in which victims are forced through threats or violence to hand over private keys, increased 75% from the prior year, with 72 confirmed cases worldwide. CertiK said the data shows a clear shift, with physical coercion becoming a mainstream risk for crypto holders.

The report logged a 250% rise in physical assaults tied to crypto theft, including home invasions, kidnappings, and at least one killing. Europe accounted for more than 40% of these incidents globally, up from 22% in 2024.

France recorded the highest number of attacks at 19—more than double the total in the United States—while Spain and Sweden also saw sharp increases. CertiK attributed the trend to organized crime groups increasingly targeting individuals known or believed to control significant crypto holdings.

Attack patterns varied widely. Some criminals forced entry into victims’ homes, while others pressured family members, including spouses, children, and elderly parents, to compel compliance. The report also highlighted “honeypot” schemes, where attackers formed fake romantic relationships before staging assaults.

CertiK linked the escalation in violence to improvements in digital security that have made hacking less effective and more costly. The firm described this dynamic as the “Technical Paradox,” in which stronger technology pushes attackers toward exploiting human vulnerability.

Confirmed losses from wrench attacks exceeded $40 million in 2025, though the report warned that many cases likely remain unreported. As a result, CertiK said personal safety has become an increasingly important part of the crypto risk landscape.

To address the threat, some crypto firms are turning to insurance-based solutions. Insurers including Lloyd’s of London have begun offering coverage that explicitly includes losses tied to wrench attacks.