Crypto Entrepreneurs to Benefit from Enhanced Privacy Protections

Following a troubling wave of kidnappings targeting figures in the cryptocurrency sector — including high-profile cases in France, such as the abduction and mutilation of a Ledger co-founder — French authorities have moved to bolster the safety of startup leaders. On Saturday, June 7, the Ministry of Justice announced that company directors will soon be able to request the removal of their personal addresses from the Trade and Companies Register (RCS) by filing directly with commercial court registries. This so-called “redaction” measure will be followed by an update of the National Business Register (RNE).

Described as a “simple and fast” process, the ministry says requests will be processed within days. The new procedure is expected to become operational within weeks, pending an expedited review by the French Council of State.

Immediate Alternatives Already Available

While awaiting the official rollout of this protection, business owners can already turn to the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) to request the redaction of their personal addresses from annexed documents in the RNE. This step comes as part of a broader security response: the Interior Ministry recently met with crypto entrepreneurs to offer reinforced protection, including priority access to emergency services, home security assessments, and active police coordination to prevent targeted abductions.

A Shift Toward Prevention

These new measures reflect a growing awareness of the dangers faced by France’s crypto leaders. With over a dozen such incidents reported since the beginning of the year — some narrowly foiled by police intervention — the government’s goal is now to proactively shield executives and their families before another case shakes the sector’s fragile sense of safety.