Crypto Entrepreneurs In France Now Under Guard After Kidnapping Surge
French authorities have announced fresh security steps for crypto entrepreneurs and their families. The move comes after a string of violent attempts to kidnap industry figures. Officials are aiming to curb what they call a worrying spike in attacks.
Government Steps Up Security
According to reports, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has offered priority access to police emergency lines for those in the crypto sector. Home security assessments will be made available, and safety briefings from law enforcement will guide families on best practices. Retailleau said these measures are meant to “prevent, dissuade and hinder” any further assaults.
High-Profile Attacks This Year
Based on reports, three major incidents have shaken France in just a few months. On May 13, attackers tried to snatch the daughter and grandson of Paymium CEO Pierre Noizat in broad daylight.
🇫🇷 An attempted kidnapping this week of the daughter of a #cryptocurrency platform boss in #Paris, has sparked calls to bolster security.
📈 It was the 3rd such violent incident in #France this year.
✏️ by @leelajacintohttps://t.co/IgkrWuigGU
— FRANCE 24 English (@France24_en) May 16, 2025
On May 3, Paris police freed a crypto executive’s father who had been held for several days in a €7 million kidnapping plot—about $7.8 million at today’s rates.
And back on January 21, David Balland, co‑founder of hardware wallet maker Ledger, was taken from his home and held overnight until a police raid secured his release the next day.
Growing Toll Since 2014
Law enforcement records show more than 150 crypto‑related robberies or kidnappings since 2014. Of those, 23 cases happened in 2025 alone. That rise has alarmed both officials and industry leaders.
Many of the criminals track potential targets via social media posts, meetups and public events before making their move.
Source: Orange Stock Photo Production Inc. via Alamy Stock Photo
Advice From Experts
Bitcoin cypherpunk Jameson Lopp has warned against peer‑to‑peer trades with strangers. He advises against flaunting wealth on social channels or wearing crypto‑branded gear in public.
His tips include splitting holdings between “hot” and “cold” storage, using regulated exchanges and hiring vetted security teams for high‑risk individuals.
What Comes Next
Some industry insiders expect France to form a dedicated crypto‑crime task force. Others think tougher prison terms for ransom kidnappers could act as a stronger deterrent.
Meanwhile, executives are likely to rethink how visible they are at conferences and online.
As the crypto market grows, so does its appeal to criminals. With these new measures, France hopes to stay one step ahead of those who see digital assets as a quick way to make a ransom demand.
Authorities say they will keep adjusting their approach as needed, watching the numbers and listening to families who feel exposed.
Featured image from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
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