Parisian Crypto CEO’s Daughter Fights Off Kidnappers
In a chilling incident that underscores the growing threat of offline crypto-related attacks, the daughter of Paymium CEO Pierre Noizat bravely fought off kidnappers in Paris on May 13th. The brazen attempt to kidnap Noizat’s daughter and her young son took place in broad daylight in the city’s 11th district, sending shockwaves through the crypto community.
According to reports, three masked assailants approached Noizat’s daughter and her male partner as they were walking with her son. The attackers attempted to force them into a waiting van, but the daughter resisted fiercely. In a remarkable display of courage, she managed to wrest a gun from one of the assailants and throw it away, thwarting the kidnappers’ plan.
Passersby intervened, forcing the assailants to flee in the van, which was later found abandoned nearby. All three victims sustained injuries and were taken to a local hospital. The incident has sent a wave of unease through the crypto world, raising concerns about the safety of those associated with the industry.
A Growing Trend of Offline Crypto Attacks
This is not an isolated case. The incident in Paris is just the latest in a string of offline attacks targeting individuals connected to cryptocurrency. In recent months, there have been several high-profile incidents, including the kidnapping of a crypto entrepreneur in Paris and the alleged abduction and robbery of a man at gunpoint in Las Vegas, who lost $4 million in crypto and NFTs.
These incidents highlight a disturbing trend: criminals are increasingly targeting crypto individuals and their families outside the digital realm. They are evolving their tactics beyond online scams and social engineering, resorting to more violent methods.
Expert Reactions and Safety Concerns
Experts in the crypto space are urging caution and urging individuals to be more mindful of their online and offline security. Michael Englander, co-founder and CEO of Plasbit, a Polish crypto exchange, warns that flaunting wealth online is not only foolish but also puts families at risk.
“If you’re in crypto and still flaunting it online, you’re not just stupid, you’re putting your family in danger,” Englander said on Twitter.
Crypto-focused lawyer Sasha Hodder emphasizes the changing nature of crypto theft: “Crypto theft is evolving. It’s not just social engineering or SIM swaps anymore,” she stated on Twitter.
These incidents highlight the need for the crypto community to prioritize security both online and offline. It is crucial to avoid sharing sensitive information online, exercise caution when disclosing personal details, and take steps to protect oneself and one’s family from physical harm.
While the crypto world celebrates its innovative potential, these real-world attacks serve as a stark reminder that the industry must address its security vulnerabilities and prioritize the safety of its participants.
