In a plot twist that could only be scripted by a particularly twisted screenwriter, a 26-year-old crypto content creator found himself in a bit of a pickle late on Friday. While innocently heading home in Juvisy-sur-Orge, he was snatched by four men who, in a scene reminiscent of a bad action movie, forced him into a stolen car and demanded a staggering €50,000 in cryptocurrency. Because, you know, who doesn’t carry that kind of cash in their back pocket?
After a brief moment of panic, our hapless hero showed them his account balance, which, spoiler alert, was not nearly enough to satisfy their demands. They let him go the next day, leaving him with a few bruises and a six-day medical leave note. Talk about a rough weekend! 😬
Rising Threats For Crypto Users
According to France’s Organized and Specialized Crime Division (which sounds like a group of superheroes, doesn’t it?), this is just one of many attacks targeting people linked to digital coins. In fact, there are at least 29 reported cases in 2025 alone. Who knew being a crypto enthusiast could come with such a side of danger?
These crimes often kick off with a bit of violence, followed by the obligatory crypto-wallet checks. When ransom demands start hitting the tens or even millions of euros, things can escalate faster than you can say “blockchain.”
A 26-year-old TikTok influencer was kidnapped by four men in… you guessed it… France! But they released him after realizing he didn’t have as much money as he claimed online.
Fake PnL screenshots are never worth it!
— Beau (@beausecurity) June 15, 2025
Kidnapping Attempts On High Profiles
On May 13, some not-so-bright assailants attempted to grab the daughter and grandson of Pierre Noizat, the co-founder of crypto exchange Paymium. A few days earlier, on May 3, Paris police swooped in to rescue another victim after family members failed to meet a €7 million ransom. Yes, you read that right—€7 million! Talk about a hefty price tag for a family reunion!
In a particularly gruesome twist, the man’s finger had been cut off to encourage his relatives to cough up the cash. These plots show just how far criminals will go when they catch a whiff of digital wealth. 😳
Police Crackdown And Arrests
In a stroke of good news, French investigators have made some key moves in recent weeks. On June 4, one leading suspect was caught in Morocco, probably thinking he could escape the long arm of the law. Then, on June 11, police in Paris nabbed several others tied to the father-abduction case.
By May 31, prosecutors had charged 25 people connected to multiple crypto-kidnap plots. It seems law enforcement is finally getting better at tracking down these networks of ne’er-do-wells.
Calls For Better Security
After this string of attacks, security experts are now saying that crypto figures must rethink how they protect themselves. Bodyguards and safer routes are now on the checklist. Who knew that being a crypto trader would require a personal security detail? 😅
Many experts recommend hiding wallet balances and keeping personal details off social media. Because, let’s face it, the last thing you want is to be the target of a kidnapping because you posted a picture of your latest crypto gains.
Exchanges are being urged to share threat data quickly with police to freeze suspicious transfers. Some entrepreneurs have even started private groups to warn each other about fresh risks.
This latest incident ended without a payout, but it illustrates the growing link between real-world danger and online assets. For a trader with 40,000 TikTok followers, a viral clip about cryptocurrency can bring fame—and, unfortunately, unwanted attention. Who knew fame could be so dangerous?
Read More
2025-06-16 15:15