Digital currency thefts have surged in 2025, with $2.17 billion already stolen from crypto services, surpassing last year’s total. The rise is driven by a cyberattack on Bybit and attacks on individual wallets, including violent incidents. The increase is attributed to growing crypto adoption and price appreciation, according to Chainalysis.

Physical attacks targeting crypto holders are on the rise, with high-profile incidents involving kidnappings and ransom demands. A co-founder of Ledger was kidnapped and had his finger cut off, while the father of a crypto entrepreneur was abducted and had a finger severed. These incidents highlight the dangers of flaunting wealth from crypto holdings.

Cybercrimes research lead at Chainalysis, Eric Jardine, attributes the increase in crypto-related thefts to the growing adoption and value of cryptocurrencies. As crypto services improve security, attackers are shifting focus to individual wallet holders. Jardine warns against flaunting wealth on social media, as it can attract unwanted attention from malicious actors.

Read more at CNBC: Crypto theft booms to a record amid kidnappings, Bybit hack