Bitcoin’s Price Surge Fuels Rise in Physical Attacks

As Bitcoin and crypto prices soar, so too does the threat of physical attacks against holders.

According to an archive maintained by security expert Jameson Lopp, co-founder and chief security officer of CASA, more than 200 known physical attacks on crypto holders have been reported since 2014.

In 2025 alone, 11 criminal incidents have already been recorded—including the abduction of Ledger CEO David Balland, as reported by CoinDesk on January 24.

🛑 Physical Attacks Rise as Bitcoin Gains Value

The recent market surge, where Bitcoin crossed the $100,000 mark, has drawn increasing attention from criminals.

📍 Most affected regions in 2025:

🔹 Thailand
🔹 Korea
🔹 France

The most recent incident occurred on February 25 in Korea, where four individuals were arrested for the murder of a Chinese man who had traveled to buy virtual currency.

🔍 Lopp: Criminals Are Testing the Waters

Lopp believes that Bitcoin’s rising price directly correlates with the rise in physical attacks:

“As adoption increases, mainstream awareness increases, and as such, the number of criminally minded people who are aware of it increases. We’re currently in the discovery phase where criminals are trying to determine the risks and rewards of targeting crypto asset holders for robberies.”

📈 More Attacks Expected as Crypto Goes Mainstream

🔹 Since 2021, reported physical attacks on Bitcoin holders have exceeded 20 cases per year.
🔹 2025 is already halfway to surpassing that threshold.
🔹 The current spike coincides with Bitcoin’s price breaking $100K, bringing increased attention from both investors and criminals.

💭 The Bottom Line: How Can Crypto Holders Stay Safe?

As Bitcoin adoption grows, so does the risk of physical threats.

🔹 Security measures, including multi-signature wallets and secure storage solutions, are more important than ever.
🔹 Avoid discussing holdings in public or social media.
🔹 Always use secure environments for in-person crypto transactions.

With Bitcoin’s mainstream appeal at an all-time high, the risk of “wrench attacks” (where criminals coerce individuals into transferring crypto) will likely continue to rise.

Staying aware, discreet, and well-protected is now a critical necessity for crypto holders in 2025.