Crypto execs beef up security following string of kidnappings: Report

Crypto industry executives are beefing up personal security and demanding more bodyguard services in response to a recent string of kidnapping and ransom attempts worldwide — particularly in France — targeting investors and professionals in the sector.

According to a Bloomberg report, Infinite Risks International, a private security firm based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is seeing more inquiries into bodyguard services and more long-term clients signing up for a private security detail.

Additionally, French law enforcement officials recently announced enhanced security measures for crypto entrepreneurs and investors, following at least three separate kidnapping incidents so far in 2025.

The measures include security briefings and expedited access to police lines in the case of emergencies for the entrepreneurs and their families.

French law enforcement authorities also advised crypto investors not to advertise their wealth or wear crypto-branded clothing, lessening their chances of becoming targets. The disturbing string of incidents highlights the need for proactive safety measures and vigilance for crypto investors and industry professionals.

Related: Violent crypto robberies on the rise: Six attacks that targeted investors

David Balland, the co-founder of hardware wallet company Ledger, was kidnapped in January 2025 and held for ransom for several days before being rescued by French police.

In May 2024, the father of an unnamed crypto entrepreneur was freed from a ransom attempt after French law enforcement officials raided the location in a Paris suburb where the individual was being held hostage by organized criminals.

According to Le Parisien, the suspects severed one of the victim's fingers — bearing a disturbing similarity to other crypto-related kidnapping cases in France where the victim was mutilated by the suspects.

Shortly after, On May 13, the family of Pierre Noizat, the co-founder and CEO of French crypto exchange Paymium, was targeted in an attempted kidnapping.

Several masked assailants physically assaulted the family on the street and attempted to force Noizat's daughter and grandson into a van in broad daylight.

The daughter and another pedestrian managed to fight off the attackers and force them into retreat, preventing the family from being abducted.

The high visibility and brazenness of the crime sent shockwaves through the crypto world, leading French interior minister Bruno Retailleau to call for a meeting with industry executives to discuss the incidents and propose enhanced security measures for at-risk crypto professionals and high net worth investors.

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