Cryptocurrency Asset Security Alert: France Experiences Frequent Physical Robbery Incidents, USB Storage Devices Become High-Risk Targets

A recent home invasion robbery in France has sounded the alarm again—according to data released by security company Casa’s Chief Technology Officer Jameson Lopp, over 70 “wrench attack” incidents targeting cryptocurrency holders were recorded worldwide last year (i.e., physically threatening and using violence to forcibly obtain crypto assets), with France becoming a major hotspot for crypto-related crime in Europe, reporting 14 related cases.

On January 9th, a typical cryptocurrency robbery occurred in the Manosque region of France. Three masked men broke into a residential home, threatened and restrained a female victim with guns, then stole a USB device that stored her partner’s cryptocurrency data. After the incident, the victim quickly contacted local police, and a criminal investigation has been initiated.

This case highlights the real threats faced by crypto asset holders. Unlike hacking attacks in the digital realm, “wrench attacks” directly target individuals and families, using physical violence and threats to force access to private keys, seed phrases, or hardware wallets—key storage devices. Due to their portability and concealability, USB devices often become prime targets for criminals—they are small, easy to carry, yet may contain control over millions or even billions of dollars worth of crypto assets.

The reason France has become a frequent site of such crimes is believed to be related to the large number of crypto users, wealth concentration, and relatively weak security awareness. Among over 70 global cases last year, France’s 14 cases account for nearly 20%, far higher than other European countries, indicating that French crypto holders face higher physical security risks.

For many crypto asset holders, this trend raises an important issue: how to protect personal safety and property as digital assets grow. Besides improving home security measures, effective risk mitigation strategies include diversifying asset storage locations, using multi-signature wallets, and avoiding revealing holdings in public settings.