Physical attacks targeting cryptocurrency holders surged in the first half of 2026, revealing a growing threat beyond digital hacks. CertiK’s latest report recorded 52 confirmed wrench attacks globally during this period, up from 39 in the same timeframe last year.
The financial impact exploded, with losses and ransom demands jumping from about $10.5 million to $124.1 million. Home invasions tied to these crimes also climbed sharply, moving from just one public case in early 2025 to 20 in the first half of 2026. These figures reflect only publicly verified incidents, so the real numbers might be far higher due to underreporting.
Europe Becomes Hotspot for Crypto Wrench Attacks
The geographical landscape shifted dramatically, with Europe accounting for 39 of the 52 incidents. France emerged as the focal point, reporting 33 cases alone, making it the country with the highest verified wrench attacks in the CertiK dataset. Analysts suggest this concentration stems from Europe's sizable crypto community, accessible target information, and more rigorous public reporting.
CertiK’s findings highlight how physical threats are clustering in Western Europe, pointing toward a new reality where attackers exploit both digital and physical vulnerabilities.
The report stresses that securing wallets with software isn’t enough anymore. Enhanced custody solutions are necessary to prevent forced transfers under duress. Techniques like requiring multiple approvals for transactions, imposing withdrawal limits, instituting delays, and using staged custody setups can provide critical time to detect and block unauthorized moves.
As physical coercion gains prominence, safeguarding crypto assets now means protecting the people behind the wallets as much as the wallets themselves.
