Key Insights:
- France recorded 41 crypto kidnappings in 3.5 months, linked to leaked personal data and insider access claims.
- Telegram CEO warned that increased data collection raises risks after reports of tax system data exposure.
- French tax officer allegedly sold crypto investor data for €800 per record to criminal groups targeting victims.
- Waltio breach exposed 5,000 users, with over $17 million in ransom payments linked to leaked data.
France reported 41 crypto-related kidnappings within the first three and a half months of 2026. The cases raised concerns about data exposure and personal safety among digital asset holders. New claims linked some incidents to leaked personal records from official systems and private platforms.
Data Leak Claims and Telegram Response
Pavel Durov addressed the situation in a public message and raised concerns about data access. He stated that criminals obtained personal details from inside the French tax system. He added that such access increased risks for crypto investors across the country.
Durov said, “”More data means more leaks, and more victims.”” He also added that Telegram would rather exit France than share private user messages with authorities. His comments followed reports about a tax officer accused of selling investor data to criminal groups.
Authorities identified the officer as Ghalia C., and reports stated she sold personal records for about €800 each. These records allegedly included sensitive information tied to crypto ownership. The claims linked these sales to organized criminal activity targeting individuals with digital assets.
Platform Breach and Rising Security Concerns
A separate incident involved Waltio, a crypto tax platform used in France. The platform suffered a data breach that exposed information of over 5,000 users. Reports linked the breach to more than $17 million in ransom payments. The breach added to concerns about centralized data storage and security practices.
Criminal groups reportedly used the leaked data to identify and target individuals holding crypto assets. These events increased attention on how personal information is stored and shared. The situation also raised awareness about security measures among crypto users.
Experts often advise users to limit public exposure of holdings and use secure storage solutions. Hardware wallets and self-custody methods remain common practices for reducing risks. The developments in France placed focus on the balance between regulation and user privacy. Officials continue to investigate the reported incidents and data leaks.
