CertiK warned of a 75% surge in violent crypto thefts in 2025, with Europe leading over 40% of cases and $40 million losses prompting insurers to offer specialized coverage.
CertiK documented 72 confirmed 'wrench attacks' on cryptocurrency holders in 2025, marking a 75% increase over the previous year and over $40 million in reported losses. These incidents involve coercing victims through violence to obtain private keys, with physical assaults rising by 250%. Europe now accounts for more than 40% of global cases, up from 22% in 2024, with France leading at 19 reported attacks—more than twice the U.S. total. Methods included home invasions, kidnappings, targeted threats to relatives, and 'honey pot' schemes. CertiK highlighted the 'Technical Paradox', where improved digital protections push criminals toward exploiting the human element. In response, some insurers, including Lloyd’s of London, have begun offering coverage for such attacks.