IRL crypto threats: Physical “wrench attacks” have led to over $100 million in losses since January alone

Crypto investors have lost more than $100 million to physical extortion in the first four months of 2026, according to blockchain security firm CertiK, as criminal groups increasingly target the people behind digital wallets rather than the technology securing them. The attacks, known in the industry as “wrench attacks,” use kidnapping, assault, threats, or other forms of physical coercion to force victims to transfe…