Bitcoin News Today: Bitcoin Kidnappings Surge 2025 GLOK Launched to Protect Holders

Alena Vranova, the co-founder of SatoshiLabs and Trezor, has launched GLOK, a new security service aimed at protecting Bitcoin users from escalating physical threats. This initiative comes at a critical time when the value of Bitcoin has surpassed $100,000, making cryptocurrency holders increasingly vulnerable to kidnappings and ransom demands. GLOK is designed to address these risks by providing comprehensive training and advanced technology solutions.

The first half of 2025 saw a significant increase in kidnappings targeting cryptocurrency holders, surpassing the total number of incidents recorded in 2024. Criminals have shifted their tactics from digital ransomware to physical "wrench attacks," where victims are coerced into surrendering their wallet credentials. A notable case involved a 28-year-old Italian tourist who was tortured for weeks in a Manhattan apartment in May 2025, allegedly by a crypto trader attempting to extort his Bitcoin. Vranova emphasized that even small amounts of Bitcoin, such as less than 0.5 BTC, can put individuals at risk, as criminals target holders for as little as $50,000.

Approximately 18 million crypto owner identities, including 2.2 million with home addresses, are circulating on the darknet. This data leak primarily stems from exchanges that have implemented Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures. With an estimated 700 million to 1 billion crypto owners globally, 70-80% of whom have undergone KYC, the risk of being targeted is significant. Vranova highlighted that the most dangerous regions for crypto-related kidnappings are China Hong Kong and the UAE, with 0.120 and 0.091 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants, respectively. However, she noted that these figures are likely underreported.

Exchange users are particularly vulnerable due to data leaks at exchanges that have KYC’d their customers. Businessmen, journalists, podcasters, and developers who discuss Bitcoin publicly also face risks, as do enthusiasts who have shared their interest with others. Vranova explained that assumed crypto wealth may be larger than actual, but criminals will not care. Family members are often targeted as attack vectors, a risk many overlook. Many Bitcoiners lack the protective habits of traditional wealthy families, overestimating technology and underestimating the human factor, which leaves them unprepared for physical security threats, often leading to panic in high-stress situations.

GLOK, launched in 2025, offers training to enhance physical security and is developing software and hardware products to complement its security offerings. Its main service currently includes Counter-Kidnapping Training and a free checklist to assess the risk factor for crypto-related kidnappings. The app is in beta testing with sign-ups available. GLOK is actively hiring software engineers and hopes to bootstrap an international community of "Guardian Angels" who can be summoned in an emergency to protect Bitcoin owners from related threats. Vranova urged preparedness, stating, "It is time to rewrite the $5 wrench attack meme."

The launch of GLOK signifies a notable shift in prioritizing physical security for Bitcoin holders, who are increasingly targeted by criminals despite significant digital assets safeguards. The announcement underscores the transition from digital to physical threats in the cryptocurrency sector. Vranova, known for her influential role in Trezor, now focuses on addressing rising physical security concerns. GLOK is initiated in response to increased kidnappings and extortion incidents affecting Bitcoin users globally. Vranova's insights highlight how even less than 0.5 BTC can make individuals vulnerable to threats, emphasizing the critical nature of these security risks.

There are no public details on GLOK’s funding or additional team members. Vranova's statements point to the worrying trend of physical threats, stressing the vulnerability of millions due to data leaks. The implications for Bitcoin holders are significant, as GLOK aims to provide comprehensive training and technological solutions to mitigate these risks. This move by Vranova may catalyze broader industry efforts towards enhancing crypto security. Future outcomes of GLOK’s initiatives could reshape the regulatory and technological landscape, significantly impacting how Bitcoin security is approached. This reflects a crucial adaptation to evolving crime tactics in the crypto world.