Telegram founder links tax data leak to rise in crypto kidnappings in France

Telegram founder Pavel Durov has linked the rise in crypto-related kidnappings in France to the alleged misuse of crypto investors’ tax data by a former tax official.

“More data = More victims,” Durov said in an X post on Friday, pointing to approximately 41 reported kidnappings of crypto holders in France since the beginning of 2026.

“French tax officials selling crypto owners' data to criminals (Ghalia C.) + massive tax database leaks,” Durov said were driving the surge in crypto-related crime in France.

Ghalia C., a former French tax official, is the only publicly known case of its kind. Ghalia C. was detained in June 2025 after allegedly selling data on crypto professionals and investors to criminals, which was then used to facilitate physical attacks and extortion.

One crypto-related kidnapping in France every 2.5 days, says report

Durov’s claims come as crypto-related kidnappings have surged across France, with reports indicating the country is now seeing roughly one case every 2.5 days. This includes one of the most notable cases in January 2025, involving Ledger co-founder David Balland, who was kidnapped alongside his wife and had his hand mutilated.

Source: Pavel Durov

Jean-Didier Berger, minister delegate to the interior minister of France, said at Paris Blockchain Week on April 16 that authorities are taking measures to protect cryptocurrency investors from the growing threat of crypto kidnappings and wrench attacks in the country.

Prominent blockchain investigator ZachXBT said in an X post on Wednesday that he is now prioritizing this area. “I prioritize these types of cases as they have grown more frequent amidst this disturbing trend,” ZachXBT said.

“If you or someone you know falls victim, reach out as soon as possible rather than delay,” ZachXBT said.

It comes just days after it was reported that a family in Ploudalmézeau was victims of a home invasion on Monday, including the mother, her two children, and their grandparents, who were held captive for several hours.

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Durov said, “That’s why Telegram would rather leave the French market than give their corrupt bureaucrats access to private messages.”

Separately, on April 13, a mother and her 11-year-old child were reportedly kidnapped in Burgundy by four suspects who demanded a 400,000 euro ($471,000) ransom from the father, a crypto entrepreneur.

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