Violent Attacks Target Crypto Wealth Holders as Wrench Attacks Bypass Encryption

Cybersecurity experts are warning of a new trend in cryptocurrency thefts where attackers use violence, threats, or home invasions to force victims to unlock their wallets or approve transfers. These incidents, known as wrench attacks, bypass strong encryption by targeting the person who controls the keys.

The trend has been reported across France, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, with many cases involving people linked to digital asset wealth, including investors, traders, company leaders, and their relatives. TRM analysts identified a growing pattern of physical attacks against these individuals.

Criminals use intimidation or physical force to make victims reveal passwords, unlock devices, hand over hardware wallets, or authorize transactions. The name 'wrench attack' comes from the idea that even the best encryption can fail if a criminal can physically threaten the person holding the secret.