Canadian Crypto Enthusiast Forced Into Hiding After Alleged Kidnapping Attempt

A Canadian crypto enthusiast has gone into hiding with his family after narrowly escaping an alleged kidnapping attempt.
The attackers, reportedly targeting his supposed Bitcoin holdings, planned to use violent methods to force him to hand over his funds.
The victim, a volunteer moderator for a crypto forum, recounted how masked men threatened him outside his home in November. Days later, he was followed by a suspicious vehicle and confronted at gunpoint. Police later arrested four suspects, two of whom now face charges of conspiracy to kidnap and firearm possession. However, they were released under house arrest, leaving the victim fearful for his safety.
The attackers believed the victim controlled millions in Bitcoin, likely due to his online presence. “They thought I had 2.5 million Bitcoin,” he explained, adding that the reality was far less dramatic. Despite being an ordinary individual with modest holdings, he’s been forced to spend his savings to protect himself and his children.
READ MORE: China’s Economic Woes Ignite Speculation of a Bitcoin Rally
This case is one of many alarming incidents tied to cryptocurrencies. Recent crimes include kidnappings in France, Belgium, and Pakistan, where victims were coerced into transferring funds or held for ransom.
Bitcoin advocate Jameson Lopp, who has tracked over 180 crypto-related crimes since 2014, urges users to prioritize privacy. He advises against flaunting wealth, engaging in risky trades, or showcasing crypto affiliations to minimize risk.
As crypto adoption grows, the need for heightened security and awareness becomes increasingly critical for users navigating the dangers of digital wealth.