French investigators now suspect a broader criminal network may be involved. They believe social media is being used to recruit participants and target crypto entrepreneurs and their families.
The cases unfolded in Paris underscore the growing risks in the crypto space, not just online, but in real life. As digital assets rise in value, so do the dangers for those who hold them.
Daylight Kidnappings and Crypto Ransoms
On May 13, three men allegedly attempted to kidnap the daughter and grandson of Pierre Noizat. He is the CEO and co-founder of French crypto exchange Paymium. The attempted abduction took place in broad daylight and was caught on video. Thanks to bystanders and the victims’ resistance, the attack was stopped.
Earlier that month, the father of a crypto marketing executive was abducted and held for ransom between €5 million and €7 million. Authorities have since arrested six suspects believed to be connected to the case, but none so far for the attempted kidnapping of Noizat’s family. These are not isolated incidents. In a separate case earlier this year, David Balland, co-founder of Ledger—makers of popular crypto hardware wallets—was kidnapped from his home. He was eventually rescued by police after a ransom demand in crypto.
A violent kidnapping just shocked Paris.
A Crypto CEO his wife and his grandson were kidnapped in broad daylight.
The motive? Millions in Bitcoin.
Here’s what happened
pic.twitter.com/I4hfMv5NfQ
— Crypto Jargon (@Crypto_Jargon) May 14, 2025
According to a GitHub tracker, there have been six crypto-related ransom cases in France in 2025 alone. Three of those incidents took place in Paris. This trend is fueling concern that France may be emerging as a hotspot for such criminal activity.
Security Tightens as Crypto Becomes Real-World Target
Following these high-profile incidents, France’s Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau announced increased protections. The idea is to protect crypto professionals and their families. Industry insiders are also taking steps. Some have started hiring private security to ward off potential threats.
This morning in Paris three hooded men tried to kidnap the daughter of a crypto-platform CEO and her child. Luckily, the woman was able to grab the gun and not all bystanders were cowards.
Mass migration+laws banning self defence = nightmare for Europeans pic.twitter.com/z6Z1UbEDC2
— Dries Van Langenhove (@DVanLangenhove) May 13, 2025
The connection between web3 wealth and personal safety is becoming hard to ignore. Unlike traditional bank accounts, crypto holdings can often be accessed quickly and anonymously if the private keys are compromised. That makes high-net-worth individuals in the crypto space tempting targets.
Disclaimer
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