Cryptocurrency holders are facing unprecedented physical threats as Bitcoin "wrench attacks" surge in 2025, with reported incidents already nearing double the worst annual total on record.
Chainalysis data reveals 35 documented cases of physical attacks against Bitcoin investors in just the first seven months of 2025. This disturbing trend puts the year on pace to surpass 2021's record of 36 attacks by a significant margin. The term "wrench attack" refers to criminals using physical force or intimidation to steal digital assets directly from holders.
——This marks the most dangerous period for crypto investors since Bitcoin's inception——
Analysts attribute the spike in violence to Bitcoin's 【$122,000】 all-time high reached this week. Chainalysis notes a clear correlation between BTC price appreciation and physical attacks, with criminals targeting perceived wealthy holders. Other contributing factors include:
• Increased public visibility of crypto wealth
• Involvement of organized crime networks
• Misconceptions about cryptocurrency traceability
While the situation appears dire, potential deterrents are emerging. The growth of Bitcoin ETFs allows investment without direct asset custody, while blockchain's transparency enables stolen fund tracking. Chainalysis emphasizes that consistent law enforcement action could disrupt current attack patterns.
Interestingly, the true number of victims may be higher than reported, as many cases go undocumented due to fear or local handling without publicity. Jameson Lopp's GitHub database, tracking such incidents since 2014, remains the most comprehensive public resource.
Security experts recommend:
• Avoiding public disclosure of crypto holdings
• Using institutional custody solutions
• Implementing multi-signature wallets
• Reporting all incidents to authorities
As Bitcoin's bull run continues, the crypto community faces growing pressure to address this physical security challenge while maintaining the decentralized principles that make blockchain technology revolutionary.