Ledger co-founder released after kidnapping with ransom demand in cryptocurrencies
- Kidnapping for ransom in cryptocurrencies mobilizes authorities
- Police operation frees Ledger co-founder
- Crypto security gains worldwide prominence
French authorities have confirmed the release of David Balland, co-founder of Ledger, who there were was forcibly abducted from his home in Cher, central France. The incident occurred on Tuesday and involved demands for payment in cryptocurrency, according to local media reports.
🚨 Ledger Co-Founder David Balland has been released following kidnapping and sensitive rescue operation! 👏
Balland was kidnapped in 🇫🇷France on Tuesday. The kidnappers apparently felt a finger as part of their ransom demands.
Due to the danger to his life, media were asked… pic.twitter.com/7jTgIrjfGY
— CryptosRus (@CryptosR_Us) January 23, 2025
The following day, the National Gendarmerie carried out an operation tactic who ensured the safety of Balland and his wife, who was also being held hostage. “Mr. Balland has been treated by emergency services and requires medical care,” the Paris prosecutor’s office said. Details about where the couple were held and whether a ransom was actually paid have not yet been fully released.
The investigation has been transferred to a specialized jurisdiction, as the suspects are allegedly part of an organized group. French authorities have arrested several people linked to the crime, but are continuing to work to identify all those responsible.
This case reflects a scenario in which cryptocurrency owners and prominent figures in the market face increasing risks. In previous incidents, other executives have been victims of kidnapping, demonstrating how digital assets can attract criminals seeking illegal gains. In November of last year, for example, there was a report of extortion involving large amounts of crypto, signaling a pattern of attacks targeting investors and businesspeople.
Ledger, founded in 2014, gained international visibility by providing hardware wallets for protecting crypto assets. With the popularization of crypto transactions, concerns about security measures have also grown. Experts advocate greater attention to personal and business protection protocols, both to prevent virtual invasions and violent actions involving digital assets.
The mayor of Méreau, a town near the kidnapping site, expressed surprise at the severity of the situation. “This must be a very serious incident, as I have never seen anything like it in my town,” the mayor said. Although Balland does not show signs of serious injuries, the severity of the case reinforces the warning about the risks of crimes linked to cryptocurrencies.
Disclaimer: The content of this article solely reflects the author's opinion and does not represent the platform in any capacity. This article is not intended to serve as a reference for making investment decisions.
You may also like
Senate Democrats introduce ‘End Crypto Corruption Act’ to ban lawmakers from crypto
Share link:In this post: Senate Democrats, led by Senator Jeff Merkley, introduced the “End Crypto Corruption Act” to prevent U.S. officials from benefiting from cryptocurrencies. The bill aims to stop presidents, lawmakers, and their families from issuing, endorsing, or holding digital assets. The bill was introduced just before a crucial vote on the GENIUS Act, which aims to regulate stablecoins.
EU to place huge tariffs on Boeing jets as retaliation for Trump
Share link:In this post: The EU plans to hit Boeing jets with tariffs if trade talks with the US break down. Trump imposed 20% tariffs on EU exports on April 2, later cutting it to 10% for 90 days. The EU paused retaliatory tariffs until July 14 but warned more are coming, including on chemicals.

Ripple XRP Is No Longer Just A Payments – Here’s 6 Reasons Why
Hacker moves $182K in ETH to Tornado Cash after Voltage exploit

Trending news
MoreCrypto prices
More








