Introduction to Crypto-Related Kidnappings in France
Crypto entrepreneurs and their families in France will receive enhanced security measures amid a recent rise in crypto-related kidnappings in the country. The measures include priority access to police emergency lines, home security assessments, and safety briefings from French law enforcement to ensure best practices are being followed.
Background and Recent Incidents
France’s Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, introduced the security measures as part of a broader effort to counter the recent wave of attacks. "These repeated kidnappings of professionals in the crypto sector will be fought with specific tools, both immediate and short-term, to prevent, dissuade and hinder in order to protect the industry.” Law enforcement officers will also undergo "anti-crypto asset laundering training,” Retailleau noted. Retailleau met with several local leaders from the crypto industry to discuss the measures following three crypto-related kidnapping incidents in recent months.
Notable Kidnapping Attempts
The latest incident occurred on May 13, when assailants attempted to abduct the daughter and grandson of Pierre Noizat, CEO of the French crypto platform Paymium. Fortunately, they managed to fend off the attack, which occurred in broad daylight. The assailants tried to force the pair into a waiting van, but Noizat’s daughter managed to take one of the guns off an assailant and throw it away, local police said. On May 3, Paris police freed the father of a crypto entrepreneur who was held for several days in connection with a 7 million euros ($7.8 million) kidnapping plot.
Previous Incidents and Patterns
In January, the co-founder of crypto hardware wallet provider Ledger, David Balland, was abducted from his home in central France during the early hours of Jan. 21. He was held captive until a police operation on the night of Jan. 22 secured his release. Retailleau said earlier this week that he believes the incidents were likely connected. There have been over 150 crypto-related robbery or kidnapping incidents since 2014, with 23 of those incidents occurring in 2025 alone, according to a GitHub database maintained by Bitcoin cypherpunk Jameson Lopp.
Prevention and Safety Advice
Lopp noted many of these criminals typically identify future victims through social media posts, public conversations, meetups, and conferences. He strongly advises against peer-to-peer trades — particularly with people you don’t trust — flaunting wealth on social media and wearing crypto-branded clothing. By being aware of these patterns and taking necessary precautions, individuals in the crypto industry can reduce their risk of becoming targets.
Conclusion
The rise in crypto-related kidnappings in France is a serious concern that requires immediate attention and action. The introduction of enhanced security measures by the French government is a step in the right direction. However, it is also crucial for individuals in the crypto industry to take personal responsibility for their safety by being aware of potential risks and taking necessary precautions. By working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone involved in the crypto space.
