Crypto Holders in France Are Being Targeted — Here's What Authorities and Investigators Are Doing

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As crypto-related kidnappings in France continue at an alarming pace, both government officials and independent investigators are stepping up their response. Jean-Didier Berger, minister delegate to France's interior minister, stated at Paris Blockchain Week on April 16 that authorities are actively working on measures to protect cryptocurrency investors from the growing threat of kidnappings and wrench attacks. The acknowledgment at a major industry event signals that the issue has reached the highest levels of government attention.

On the investigative side, prominent blockchain investigator ZachXBT announced he is now prioritizing these types of cases given how frequently they are occurring. He urged anyone who falls victim or knows someone who does to reach out as quickly as possible rather than delay, emphasizing that speed is critical in these situations. His involvement brings significant independent investigative capacity to a trend that law enforcement alone has struggled to contain.

The root cause, according to Durov and others, lies in compromised tax databases that have handed criminals a ready-made list of crypto holders along with their personal details. Until that data exposure is fully addressed, crypto investors in France — regardless of their profile or wealth level — remain potential targets. Reducing your public footprint as a crypto holder and avoiding disclosure of holdings on any government-linked platform has never been more important.

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criminals skipping phishing emails and going straight to front door