A French couple in their late 50s became the latest victims of a violent cryptocurrency heist, losing approximately 900,000 euros ($1 million) in Bitcoin during a fake police raid at their home in Le Chesnay-Rocquencourt, west of Paris, according to reports from TF1 Info and Agence France-Presse (AFP).
Attack Details
Three suspects, posing as law enforcement officers, broke into the couple’s residence on Monday morning. They forced the husband to transfer the Bitcoin while threatening the couple with a knife. After securing the funds, the attackers tied up the man, injured both victims, and fled the scene in a white van.
The woman managed to free her husband and alert neighbors around 9:00 am local time. The Versailles prosecutor’s office confirmed that the case is under investigation by the Brigade for the Repression of Banditry, with charges including sequestration, armed robbery by an organized gang, and criminal conspiracy. As of Tuesday, no arrests had been made.
Rise in Wrench Attacks
This incident is part of a growing trend of wrench attacks—violent crimes targeting cryptocurrency holders. These attacks increased by 75% in 2025, with 72 verified cases globally, according to cybersecurity firm CertiK. France has seen the highest number of such incidents, with 19 confirmed cases in 2025, accounting for about 40% of all European wrench attacks.
Other High-Profile Cases
France has already witnessed several high-profile crypto-related crimes this year. In early February, French police arrested six individuals over the kidnapping of a magistrate and her mother, which was linked to a crypto entrepreneur. Days later, three more suspects were apprehended after a break-in targeting the home of an executive at Binance France.
Implications and Future Outlook
The surge in violent crypto heists underscores the growing risks associated with holding significant amounts of cryptocurrency. As the popularity of digital assets continues to rise, so does the incentive for criminals to target those who possess them. This trend highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures and regulatory frameworks to protect individuals and the broader crypto ecosystem.
Experts suggest that increased public awareness, better cybersecurity practices, and more robust law enforcement efforts are crucial to mitigating the risk of such attacks. The crypto community and regulatory bodies must work together to develop comprehensive strategies to ensure the safety and integrity of the digital asset market.
As the crypto landscape evolves, the focus on security and regulation will only intensify. The recent wave of wrench attacks in France serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges and the importance of staying vigilant in the digital age.
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