Crypto Kidnappings: The Rise of Violent Crime in the Age of Digital Wealth | Private Strategic Group
High-net-worth individuals known to hold substantial cryptocurrency assets are the primary targets of these kidnappings. This group includes crypto entrepreneurs, exchange executives, influencers, and traders, particularly those with public profiles or who display their wealth online. Attackers commonly conduct extensive surveillance, combing social media, blockchain addresses, and even monitoring attendance at crypto events to identify vulnerable individuals with access to significant digital holdings.
Of the $166 million stolen through physical attacks on cryptocurrency holders from 2022 to 2025, almost $128 million has been obtained through kidnapping.ii
Recent cases have amplified the lucrativeness of these attacks with ransoms…
