Crypto crime has moved beyond online hacks, Chainalysis says

Chainalysis has warned that cryptocurrency crime has increasingly extended into kidnappings, home invasions and other violent incidents as criminals pursue holders who can transfer digital assets immediately under coercion. Summary Chainalysis said violent attacks against crypto holders have become more common as criminals target self custody wallets and instantly transferable assets. The report estimated more than $30 million has been stolen through successful physical attacks during the first half of 2026. Investigators found attackers leave blockchain trails that help trace stolen funds even after violent thefts succeed. France has recorded the highest number of publicly known crypto related violent incidents since 2023 as authorities expand organized crime investigations. Family members have increasingly been targeted to pressure crypto holders into transferring digital assets. According to the blockchain analytics firm’s latest report shared with crypto.news, cybercrime still accounts for most illicit crypto activity, including an estimated $3.4 billion stolen through hacks, $17 billion lost to scams and about $820 million linked to ransomware in 2025. At the same time, physic...