From 36 to 60, crypto holders become new targets for violent crimes, with a nearly 70% increase over three years

As 2025 just passed, a set of data has brought security issues in the crypto community to the forefront. According to statistics from crypto analysis firm TRM Labs, approximately 60 “wrench” attack incidents targeting cryptocurrency holders were recorded worldwide in 2025, the highest on record. Compared to 41 cases in 2024 and 36 in 2021, this number shows a clear upward trend, reflecting the increasing security threats faced by crypto asset holders.

The Underestimated Security Crisis

The Truth Behind the Data

Ari Redbord, Head of Global Policy and Government Affairs at TRM Labs, pointed out that the official count of 60 incidents may significantly underestimate the actual number of cases. This discrepancy arises from several factors:

• Many cases are recorded by police simply as “robbery” or “burglary,” without specifically noting the involvement of cryptocurrencies
• Victims choose not to report crimes due to uncertainty about how law enforcement handles crypto-related offenses
• Some victims hesitate to report because of unclear legal status of crypto assets

This suggests that the actual scale of security threats could be much larger than official data indicates.

Growing Trend Worries

From 2021 to 2025, the number of reported incidents increased by 66.7%, with 2025 showing especially significant growth. This accelerating trend is related to rising cryptocurrency values, increasing number of holders, and heightened targeting by criminals.

Why Are Security Threats Increasing?

Crypto Assets Becoming High-Value Targets

As the prices of mainstream cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum rise, the total value of crypto assets continues to grow. Compared to traditional robberies, violent crimes targeting crypto holders have several characteristics:

• Victims often possess concentrated high-value assets
• Crypto assets can be transferred quickly and are difficult to trace
• Crime costs are relatively low, with potentially high returns

This makes crypto holders prime targets for criminals.

Lack of Protective Awareness

Many crypto asset holders do not invest enough in security measures relative to their asset size. Some display their crypto holdings on social media or reveal information about their crypto assets in daily life, unwittingly providing clues to criminals.

Practical Security Tips

Based on expert advice, crypto holders can take the following measures to reduce risks:

• Minimize public display of crypto assets; avoid flaunting wealth on social media
• Use multi-signature wallets to increase transfer security
• Distribute long-term holdings across multiple wallets
• Set up bait accounts with small amounts of funds as “surrender” options in case of violent threats
• Enhance daily security awareness, paying attention to routines and surroundings

These measures may seem complex, but the core logic is simple: reduce the chance of being targeted, increase the cost for criminals, and provide a “safe exit.”

Summary

The 2025 “wrench” attack data reminds us that the security of crypto assets is not only a technical issue but also a matter of personal safety. The 60 reported incidents may only be the tip of the iceberg, and the actual threat scale could be much larger. However, this should not discourage people from holding crypto assets but should instead motivate holders to be more cautious and proactive in protecting themselves. For the crypto community, enjoying asset autonomy while learning to safeguard oneself is equally important.