French Authorities Investigate Crypto Data Breach at Waltio Amid Rising Threats to Investors
French authorities have launched a preliminary investigation into a data breach at Waltio, a cryptocurrency tax reporting platform used by tens of thousands of investors. Hackers reportedly accessed sensitive user information and attempted to extort the company.
The breach has renewed concerns about the safety of personal data in the crypto world, especially in France, where cases of fraud and even physical attacks on crypto holders are becoming increasingly common.
Hackers Linked to Extortion Attempt
According to French cybersecurity agencies, the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office has tasked the National Cyber Unit of the Gendarmerie with determining the full extent of the breach and identifying affected users. Officials are warning anyone whose information may have been stolen to be extra cautious: scammers could pose as legitimate service providers or even law enforcement in an attempt to trick victims into handing over their crypto assets.
Local media outlet Le Parisien reported that the attack on Waltio was connected to a ransom demand by a hacking group known as Shiny Hunters. The group claims to have obtained the personal data of roughly 50,000 users, most of whom live in France, and has shown samples of the stolen information as proof.
In response, Waltio filed a complaint for attempted extortion and unauthorized access to its systems. The company’s initial investigation suggests that the hackers accessed tax reports for 2024, including users’ email addresses, crypto profits or losses, and year-end asset balances. Importantly, Waltio said banking details, administrative records, and tax ID numbers were not affected, and its core infrastructure remains secure. The platform also confirmed that client funds are safe and services are fully operational.
Crypto Safety Under the Spotlight
Waltio, headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, serves around 150,000 users across Europe, primarily in France, Spain, and Belgium. It aggregates transactions from over 700 exchanges, wallets, and blockchains to help investors calculate gains, losses, and staking income, producing reports compliant with local tax requirements.
The investigation comes amid growing concerns in France about the real-world risks of crypto data leaks. Over the past year, police have linked a series of home invasions and kidnapping attempts to criminals seeking information about individuals’ digital assets. While no direct connection has been made between the Waltio breach and these incidents, authorities are treating the potential for misuse of stolen data seriously.
