Crypto Kidnappings Surge Globally as Criminals Shift to Physical Threats
Cryptocurrency-related kidnappings are escalating worldwide, with criminals increasingly resorting to physical violence to steal digital assets. Europe remains the epicenter of such crimes, recording 59 incidents over the past six years, while North America follows closely with 48 cases during the same period.
The trend reflects a dangerous evolution in crypto theft tactics—moving beyond digital exploits to confrontational crimes. Southeast Asia has emerged as another hotspot, accounting for the majority of Asia’s 62 documented cases since 2019.
This alarming pattern underscores the growing intersection between cryptocurrency wealth and real-world security risks. No single region appears immune, as the phenomenon spreads across continents with disturbing momentum.
