Crypto investors are easy targets for kidnappers, experts warn

Source: CritpoTendencia Original Title: Cryptocurrency investors are easy targets for kidnappers, warn experts Original Link: Investors in the crypto sector generally do not have the same level of protection as those in the traditional financial world. This makes them easy prey for criminal groups that track them down to steal their fortunes. This is evidenced by the increasing number of kidnappings of cryptocurrency holders during 2025.

Some traders who achieve success in the crypto world are young. This means they have little experience when it comes to managing the risks and responsibilities associated with holding large fortunes. Hence, many of them boast about their achievements on social media and forums like Reddit.

However, this not only attracts the attention of people who want to emulate them but also those seeking an easy way—robbery. Numerous criminal organizations are dedicated to tracking down the individuals behind the pseudonyms of cryptocurrency traders. This includes analysis of patterns such as writing style and other coincidences.

In this regard, the most sophisticated criminal organizations are capable of tracking numerous crypto investors. In 2025, according to data cited by Bloomberg, about 60 kidnappings and break-ins are believed to have occurred against digital currency holders.

This number exceeds the 40 cases recorded in 2024. However, experts assure that the number could be higher. The latter is because victims often do not report incidents to maintain privacy and to reorganize what remains of their fortunes.

The double life of crypto investors is the biggest risk

A large part of young cryptocurrency investors have a virtual identity based on their pseudonym. At the same time, they have personal social media accounts where they share photos of themselves and their families, opinions on politics, sports, and other topics.

By comparing their databases, criminals look for matches that allow them to link the trader with the person behind the image.

The matter is easier for attackers when the victim posts images of luxury cars and comments about cryptocurrencies. The increase in attacks reveals that criminals are gaining enormous experience in locating their targets.

This is reflected in the rising number of kidnappings or home invasions. Currently, security firms report a huge demand for their services from crypto investors, not only wealthy ones but also middle-class individuals.

It is important to mention that many students and workers keep their savings in cryptocurrencies, so even a minor indiscretion on social media can be disastrous.

This is where firms that clean people’s social media histories for those involved in cryptocurrencies come into play.

Attacks against entrepreneurs in the crypto world

The cited report highlights that attacks are not only directed at traders. Criminals also target higher-profile investors, such as company CEOs and their families. A simple image at a Thanksgiving dinner on social media can be decisive in creating kidnapping targets for relatives.

Some security experts consulted emphasize that some attacks have even resulted in amputated fingers.

The general recommendation from specialists is to limit private information on social media. This includes images with friends or family, comments about frequented locations, and the dangerous option of sharing location data.

They highlight that a delicate matter centers on self-custody. Although it appears as a relationship between crypto investors and the blockchain, one must not forget that this network is transparent and the history can be viewed by everyone. Thus, the coincidence of a luxury car purchase by a person and an equivalent movement of funds in a wallet can allow for an association.

In these seemingly insignificant details, criminals put their greatest effort.