A representation of Bitcoin. Recently, Bitcoin prices have soared, surpassing $110,000, making the speculation of cryptocurrencies a wealth secret for many influencers. However, a bizarre kidnapping incident in France has exposed the extravagant claims of one such influencer, prompting extensive media coverage in the country.

According to the French media outlet Europe 1, a 26-year-old crypto influencer with 40,000 followers on TikTok was kidnapped late last Friday (13th) by four assailants while returning home. They demanded a ransom of €50,000 (approximately NT$1.69 million) in cryptocurrency. Under duress, the influencer was forced to open his cryptocurrency account, but the kidnappers were shocked to discover the account contained very little assets, leading them to ultimately release him.

This incident has sparked discussions online, with many internet users mocking the influencer's perceived lavish lifestyle as merely a façade. French police investigations have revealed that during his captivity, the influencer was beaten and coerced to hand over €50,000 worth of cryptocurrency. Although he was released, the ordeal has had a severe impact on his mental and emotional well-being; he has taken six days off to recover. The investigation is now being handled by France's Central Office for the Suppression of Organized Crime (DCPJ), which is actively pursuing the four kidnappers.