French police arrest six over crypto-linked magistrate kidnapping

[_act_]

Kidnapping related to cryptocurrencies increased in France in 2025, but it has continued this year.  A magistrate and her mother was reportedly kidnapped last Wednesday to Thursday when the magistrate partner was not around. The magistrate partner has a leading position in a cryptocurrency start-up.

The kidnappers threatened to mutilate the victims if the transfer was not made quickly. The victims were able to escape but police are still on the matter.

https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20260208-french-police-arrest-six-over-crypto-linked-magistrate-kidnapping


Privacy is very important, but not everyone can hide that they know about cryptocurrencies. Security is very important in this later case.

[albon]

France has a large base of cryptocurrency investors, so there will undoubtedly be scammers waiting for an opportunity to target and kidnap victims once they gather enough information about them and their close connections.

As we can see in this case, the magistrate was likely targeted because of her relationship with someone who holds an important position in a crypto startup. They likely gathered enough information about her and possibly identified her crypto holdings.

I hope the police arrest them and that this serves as a lesson not only for the French but for all investors around the world to maintain their privacy, keep their involvement in crypto discreet, and secure their wallets properly before storing significant funds.

[rat03gopoh]

I've read various sources and it's true that the crime rate in France is rising significantly compared to other European countries. I don't think France will maintain its position as the most popular international tourist destination if kidnappings are the main crime news every month.
Even the UK government is warning its citizens to be vigilant when traveling to the country^(*). This makes sense; robbers typically expect tourists to have large amounts of cash in their hardware wallets.

*) https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/france/safety-and-security