'Wrench' attacks against crypto holders appear to be on the rise
There are more reports than ever before of strong-arm tactics like home invasions and kidnappings against cryptocurrency holders, researchers say.
Cryptocurrency accounts have long been targets of online hacks and scams. But a growing share of crypto thefts now begin in the physical world, where crooks are using face-to-face coercion to steal digital assets, according to a new report.
“Wrench” attacks — the crypto industry’s term for in-person, strong-arm tactics — showed a 33 percent year-over-year increase in the first half of 2026, according to blockchain security audit company CertiK.
Using publicly available information and other verified sources, the company found 52 wrench attacks worldwide through June, up from 39 during the same period in 2025.
Source: https://therecord.media/wrench-attacks-against-cryptocurrency-holders
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