Vanessa Perrée of France's National Anti-Organized Crime Office (PNACO) warns of a disturbing trend: crypto-kidnappings have escalated dramatically since 2024. Victims are held captive and tortured to extort cryptocurrencies, with 88 individuals indicted across 12 cases—including over 10 minors.

The numbers paint a grim picture—18 incidents in 2024 surged to 67 in 2025 before settling at 47 in 2026. Perrée attributes this wave to structured criminal networks exploiting the anonymity of digital assets. "We're witnessing organized crime adapting to new financial systems," she states, urging heightened vigilance among crypto holders and exchanges.

Authorities report extreme violence—mutilations, prolonged captivity—as gangs target both retail investors and industry professionals. The PNACO now collaborates with international agencies to trace blockchain transactions linked to these crimes.