In 2025, there were about 60 "Wrench Attack" incidents reported throughout the year, setting a new record, with the actual number possibly much higher.
BlockBeats News, January 2nd, Ari Redbord, Global Head of Policy and Government Affairs at the crypto analytics firm TRM Labs, pointed out: "2025 is a record year for wrench attacks," with about 60 reported cases throughout the year targeting cryptocurrency holders. This number is significantly higher than the previous record in 2024 (around 41 cases) and 2021 (36 cases). While the true number of wrench attacks is difficult to accurately quantify, the risk to victims is increasing, or at least public awareness of such threats is rising.
"The actual number may be much higher than this," Redbord added, "Many cases are only recorded as simple robberies or burglaries, with the cryptocurrency element being ignored; while others are never reported because victims hesitate or doubt law enforcement's ability to address crypto-related crimes."
"Wrench attacks," these types of cybersecurity risks are named after a concept: even the most sophisticated encryption and data security measures can be undermined by physical coercion — as in a scenario threatened by a 'five-dollar wrench.'
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