French authorities report 90 crypto-related violent crimes in 7 months

Chainalysis: Chainalysis is a blockchain analytics firm that provides investigation and compliance tools to law enforcement, regulators, and businesses to track illicit cryptocurrency activity. In relation to this news, its researchers have analyzed the surge in French crypto attacks, linking it to data breaches and noting a shift toward targeting relatives and associates of holders. Bull Bitcoin: Bull Bitcoin is a Canadian non-custodial Bitcoin exchange and infrastructure provider focused on self-custody solutions and Bitcoin payments. Its founder has actively challenged Europe's DAC8 crypto reporting rules in France, arguing they heighten physical security risks for users by expanding data collection and sharing. Eric Jardine: Eric Jardine is the head researcher at Chainalysis specializing in cryptocurrency crime trends and data analysis. He has commented directly on the French attack surge, stating it is very likely driven by significant data breaches that expose holders' identities, locations, and holdings to criminals. Sébastien Borget: Sébastien Borget is the co-founder and ambassador of The Sandbox, a blockchain-based metaverse and gaming platform. He has been personally impacted by the trend, with reports of an attempted abduction targeting his wife in France earlier in 2026 amid the broader wave of crypto-related violence. French authorities: French authorities are the national law enforcement and regulatory bodies responsible for investigating crimes and maintaining public safety within France. In the context of this news, they have documented a sharp rise in crypto-related violent crimes including kidnappings and extortion, and are treating these incidents as organized crime through specialized units like JUNALCO while conducting targeted arrests and investigations. Industry Response: Critics of expanded EU crypto tax reporting rules argue that increased data sharing creates greater exposure risks for users rather than enhancing security. Data Breach Impact: Leaked or stolen tax and personal records have been identified as a key driver enabling targeted physical attacks on crypto holders and their families. Law Enforcement Action: French police have conducted recent arrests of suspects linked to crypto kidnapping incidents as part of ongoing organized crime investigations.