The threat to cryptocurrency holders has taken a violent turn, with criminals increasingly orchestrating kidnappings, home invasions, and hostage situations to steal digital assets. According to a new report from blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis, these so-called “wrench attacks” have already netted criminals more than $30 million in the first half of 2026, putting the year on track to surpass the record $58 million stolen through physical coercion in 2025.

Chainalysis documented 46 violent crypto-related incidents globally through late June, up from 40 during the same period last year. The findings mark a significant evolution in crypto crime, which has traditionally been dominated by online hacks, scams, and ransomware. Cybercrime…