Wrench Attacks on Crypto Users Surge in 2025, $40M Lost to Physical Threats
Physical attacks targeting cryptocurrency holders—known as 'wrench attacks'—have surged in 2025, with criminals employing violence, kidnappings, and threats to steal digital assets. CertiK reports $40.9 million in confirmed losses, though actual figures are likely higher due to underreporting. Europe has emerged as the epicenter of this alarming trend.
The attacks, which often involve coercing victims into surrendering private keys or paying ransoms, represent a 75% year-over-year increase from 2024. This shift from cybercrime to real-world violence marks a dangerous evolution in crypto-related criminal tactics.
Security experts warn these incidents are no longer rare outliers but a systemic threat to the ecosystem. The rise underscores the need for enhanced personal security measures alongside digital safeguards in an increasingly physical threat landscape.
