Cryptocurrency accounts have long been targets of online hacks and scams. But a growing share of crypto thefts now begin in the physical world, where crooks are using face-to-face coercion to steal digital assets, according to a new report.

“Wrench” attacks — the crypto industry’s term for in-person, strong-arm tactics — showed a 33 percent year-over-year increase in the first half of 2026, according to blockchain security audit company CertiK.

Using publicly available information and other verified sources, the company found 52 wrench attacks worldwide through June, up from 39 during the same period in 2025. 

CertiK applies the label to incidents of physical coercion, “in which adversaries use violence, intimidation or…