Rising Bitcoin Prices Fuel Physical Threats
Over the past half year, something quite concerning has been happening in the crypto space. Reported physical attacks targeting Bitcoin and cryptocurrency holders have jumped by 169%, according to data maintained by Jameson Lopp, the cofounder and Chief Security Officer at CASA. This isn’t just a small uptick—it’s a dramatic surge that seems directly tied to Bitcoin’s increasing financial value.
Between January and mid-September 2025, there were 48 physical incidents recorded globally. That’s a 33% increase compared to all of 2024. What’s particularly worrying is that 35 of those incidents happened after a previous analysis was released in late February. The pattern is clear: as digital assets like Bitcoin gain mainstream recognition and higher market prices, the physical threats to their holders are growing both in number and severity.
France Emerges as Hotspot for Crypto Violence
France has recorded 14 separate incidents involving physical assaults against crypto investors in 2025 alone. These cases range from home invasions to kidnapping attempts, often involving coercion to transfer funds to attackers. This level of activity makes France one of the most affected countries during this period.
One recent attack that stands out happened on September 6, 2025, in Cambridge, Ontario. Waterloo Regional Police reported that a young man was abducted at an intersection and forced into a dark-colored van by five unidentified suspects. The attackers brandished a firearm and compelled the victim to transfer a large sum into a cryptocurrency wallet. After complying, the individual was released and later treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Security Expert Weighs In on Changing Risks
Jameson Lopp, who tracks these incidents through a publicly accessible archive, shared some insights about the shifting threat landscape. He explained that increased asset value has made Bitcoin a more attractive target for criminals, especially those using physical force to bypass technical security measures.
Lopp made an important point: while Bitcoin has become more secure over time, this security doesn’t protect users from physical coercion. He emphasized that any investor holding digital assets should stay updated on evolving threats and build a personal security plan accordingly. The sharp rise in Bitcoin-related attacks reflects the asset’s increased value—criminals now view Bitcoin not just as digital money, but as a valuable target that can be forcibly taken.
Practical Safety Measures for Crypto Holders
Given these developments, there are several steps that can reduce the likelihood of becoming a target. One of the most important recommendations is to avoid publicizing crypto ownership. Individuals should avoid being labeled as “the Bitcoin person” in their communities or online.
Online behavior remains one of the most common vectors leading to targeted attacks. Public figures, like content creator Amouranth, have been victims of violent invasions where attackers demanded cryptocurrency during home invasions. This illustrates how public visibility of Bitcoin holdings can lead to real-world consequences.
For those who self-custody Bitcoin, strengthening wallet security is crucial. This includes protecting seed phrases, using passphrases, and storing backup data securely in separate locations. Security experts recommend treating current assets as though they could become ten times more valuable in the future—the increased asset value justifies the extra effort and vigilance.
Advanced Protection Options
Advanced users might consider multisignature (multisig) wallets. These require multiple devices or approvals from separate locations to authorize transactions. This setup adds another layer of difficulty for criminals attempting to access funds even with physical access to one part of the setup.
Geographical separation of signing devices makes immediate theft under duress much harder. Multisig solutions are particularly useful for individuals or businesses holding large amounts of digital assets.
Investors less concerned with direct control can consider exposure to Bitcoin through ETFs or custodial services. These methods offer price exposure without the responsibilities of key management, though they come with their own set of risks, such as reliance on the institution’s security.
Looking Ahead
As Bitcoin continues to enter the mainstream and prices reach new highs, physical attacks are likely to persist. Lopp’s archive documents a clear trend: criminals are adjusting tactics to exploit weak spots in user security, particularly through direct physical coercion.
The only effective defense appears to be awareness, preparation, and application of layered safety measures. Individuals must act as their own security officers when managing assets that can be transferred instantly and irreversibly. The 169% increase in incidents since February and the 33% year-over-year rise underline how asset value directly influences criminal interest, making personal safety practices more important than ever.
