Crypto Entrepreneurs and Their Families Receive Enhanced Security Measures in France Amid Rise in Crypto-Related Kidnappings
The French government has announced that it will provide enhanced security measures for crypto entrepreneurs and their families in the country, following a recent surge in crypto-related kidnappings. According to a report by Politico, the measures include priority access to police emergency lines, home security assessments, and safety briefings from French law enforcement officials.
These enhanced security measures are part of a broader effort by the French government to combat the rise in crypto-related kidnappings, which have become increasingly common in recent months. The Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, has stated that the government will use "specific tools" to prevent and deter these crimes, including anti-crypto asset laundering training for law enforcement officials.
The decision to provide enhanced security measures for crypto entrepreneurs and their families was made after a series of high-profile kidnappings in France. In January, the co-founder of Ledger, David Balland, was abducted from his home in central France during the early hours of January 21. He was held captive until a police operation on the night of January 22 secured his release.
In addition to the enhanced security measures, the French government is also taking steps to prevent crypto-related kidnappings. Retailleau has stated that he believes the recent incidents were likely connected and that the government will use all available resources to prevent future crimes. The government is also working with the crypto industry to identify potential vulnerabilities and develop strategies to mitigate the risk of kidnapping.
The Rise in Crypto-Related Kidnappings
The rise in crypto-related kidnappings has been a growing concern for the French government and the crypto community. According to a GitHub database maintained by Bitcoin cypherpunk Jameson Lopp, there have been over 150 crypto-related robbery or kidnapping incidents since 2014, with 23 of those incidents occurring in 2025 alone.
Lopp notes that many of these criminals typically identify future victims through social media posts, public conversations, meetups, and conferences. He strongly advises against peer-to-peer trades – particularly with people you don’t trust – flaunting wealth on social media and wearing crypto-branded clothing.
The Impact on the Crypto Industry
The rise in crypto-related kidnappings has had a significant impact on the crypto industry in France. Many entrepreneurs have been forced to take additional security measures, including installing home security systems and hiring personal bodyguards. Some have also chosen to reduce their public profile or avoid attending high-profile events.
However, some experts believe that the enhanced security measures provided by the French government are not enough to prevent future kidnappings. They argue that the government needs to do more to address the root causes of the problem, including the lack of regulation in the crypto industry and the ease with which criminals can launder assets.
Conclusion
The recent surge in crypto-related kidnappings in France has led to a significant increase in security concerns for crypto entrepreneurs and their families. The French government has responded by providing enhanced security measures, including priority access to police emergency lines, home security assessments, and safety briefings from French law enforcement officials.
While the enhanced security measures are a welcome step, many experts believe that more needs to be done to address the root causes of the problem. They argue that the government needs to work with the crypto industry to develop strategies to mitigate the risk of kidnapping and prevent future crimes.