Telegram founder Pavel Durov has raised alarm over a sharp rise in crypto-related kidnappings in France, linking the trend to alleged leaks of tax and investor data. He argues that increasing exposure of personal financial information is making crypto holders easier targets for organized crime groups operating across the country.
“More data = more victims,” Durov said in an X post, pointing to what he described as massive tax database leaks and misuse of sensitive crypto investor records.
Rising Crypto Kidnappings in France
Durov said France has already recorded around 41 kidnappings involving crypto holders in the first months of 2026. He noted that the pattern shows a direct link between leaked personal data and physical attacks, where criminals use exposed information to identify and track wealthy crypto owners.
Reports suggest the situation has escalated into a recurring security issue, with France now seeing roughly one crypto-linked kidnapping every 2.5 days. What once appeared as isolated incidents has turned into a consistent pattern of violent crime across multiple regions.
Reported Crypto Kidnapping Cases
• Jan 2025: Ledger co-founder kidnapped in France in a ransom case
• May 2025: crypto CEO’s daughter targeted in a daylight kidnap attempt in Paris
• May 2025: crypto investor’s relative abducted, ransom demanded in crypto
• 2026: multiple “wrench attacks” forcing victims to transfer funds
Alleged Tax Data Leak Case
Durov highlighted the case of former French tax official Ghalia C., detained in 2025 for allegedly selling crypto investor data to criminal groups. The information was reportedly used in extortion schemes and kidnapping operations targeting investors.
He said once criminals access details such as names, addresses, and financial links, identifying high-value crypto holders becomes significantly easier, increasing physical risk.
High-Profile Incidents
Several cases have intensified concern in the crypto community. In 2025, Ledger co-founder David Balland and his wife were kidnapped and subjected to severe violence during a ransom attempt.
In another incident, a crypto entrepreneur’s family in Burgundy was abducted, with attackers demanding a 400,000 euro ransom. A separate home invasion in Ploudalmézeau saw multiple family members held hostage for hours, highlighting the growing threat.
Law Enforcement and Privacy Debate
French authorities have confirmed ongoing investigations and arrests in several cases involving organized groups, including cross-border networks. Officials say investor protection is now a growing priority.
Durov, however, criticized expanding government access to personal data, saying it increases risks rather than reducing them. He added that Telegram would leave the French market rather than allow access to private messages, framing it as a conflict between privacy and state surveillance.
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