France Enforces Strict Security for Crypto Leaders After Latest Kidnappings

France is ramping up security measures for cryptocurrency entrepreneurs following a spate of high-profile kidnappings targeting industry leaders. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has prioritized arrests, protection for crypto founders, and specialized law enforcement training. Yet, criticism persists—most recently from the father of a kidnapping victim who called the response inadequate.

The wave of violence has shocked the nation. In January, attackers severed a crypto co-founder’s finger during a failed attempt to steal his private keys. Two more incidents followed in May, including a brazen daylight assault on the daughter of an exchange CEO. These cases highlight a grim trend: criminals are shifting from digital heists to physical coercion in their pursuit of crypto wealth.