French crypto entrepreneurs are now on alert after a surge in kidnapping
French authorities have announced new security steps for crypto entrepreneurs and their families. The move comes after a series of violent attempts to kidnap industry figures. Officials aim to curb the worrying surge in their alleged attacks.
Government improves security
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau reportedly provides priority access to police emergency areas for personnel in the cryptocurrency sector. Family safety assessments will be provided, and law enforcement safety briefings will guide families’ best practices. Retailleau said the measures are intended to “prevent, discourage and hinder” any further attacks.
High-profile attacks this year
According to the report, in just a few months, three major incidents swept across France. On May 13, attackers attempted to snatch the daughter and grandson of Paymium CEO Pierre Noizat in spacious sunlight.
🇫🇷Kidnap of Daughter this week #cryptocurrency The platform boss is here #Paristriggering calls for strengthening security.
📈This is the third violent incident #France This year.
– French 24 English (@france24_en) May 16, 2025
On May 3, Paris police released the father of a crypto executive who was detained for several days in a 7 million euro kidnapping plot for $7.8 million today.
Back on January 21, David Balland, co-founder of hardware wallet maker Ledger, took him away from his home for the night until police raided him the next day.
Growth since 2014
Law enforcement records show that since 2014, there have been more than 150 cryptocurrency-related robberies or kidnappings. Among them, 23 cases occurred in 2025 alone. This rise shocked officials and industry leaders.
Many criminals track potential targets through social media, parties and public events before taking action.
Source: Orange Stock Photo Production Inc. via Alamy Stock Photo
Expert advice
Bitcoin Cypherpunk Jameson Lopp warns not to trade each other with strangers. He advises not to show off wealth on social channels or wear crypto-branded gear in public places.
His skills include using regulated communication and hiring for high-risk individuals to review the shares between “hot” and “cold” storage.
What will happen next
Some industry insiders expect France to form a dedicated crypto crime task force. Others argue that a stricter prison term for kidnappers’ ransoms could be a stronger deterrent.
Meanwhile, executives may rethink their visibility in meetings and online.
As the cryptocurrency market grows, its appeal to criminals has followed. With these new measures, France hopes to be one step ahead of those who see digital assets as a quick way toward ransom demand.
Authorities said they will continue to adjust their approach as needed, observe the numbers and listen to families who feel exposed.
Featured images from Unsplash, charts for TradingView
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