As cryptocurrency values rise, so do incidents of physical violence against holders. The latest case occurred in Thailand.
Armed Robbery
On November 8, Ukrainian crypto investor Viacheslav Leibov was the victim of an armed robbery in Phuket, Thailand, resulting in a 250,000 USDT loss. According to Bangkok Post, 23-year-old Leibov was invited to a hotel room by Alfred Chernyshuk and met Arman Grigoryan there. Two masked men tied him up in the bathroom, demanding a 500,000 USDT transfer under threat of violence, which Leibov negotiated down to 250,000 USDT before the criminals escaped. He filed a report with the police.
Rise in Physical Crypto Thefts
Physical assaults on individuals with cryptocurrency holdings are increasingly common worldwide, including in Thailand. Earlier this year, five Russians kidnapped a Belarusian couple on this resort island, demanding cryptocurrency worth about 31 million baht. They were sentenced to two years in prison. In another instance, a Russian was arrested on Samui Island for allegedly robbing a compatriot of Bitcoin worth about 1.8 million baht. Similar incidents occurred in Bangkok and Pathum Thani, targeting various nationals forced into cryptocurrency transfers.
Conclusion
These incidents highlight the vulnerability of crypto investors in the digital world, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures and awareness.
Victims of physical assaults in cryptocurrency deals face significant risks, underscoring the need for greater security attention for investors.
