Why Crypto Bosses Are Spending Millions on Personal Bodyguards

These days, being a big name in crypto isn’t just about trading digital money—it’s also about dodging kidnappers and thieves. Reports show more violent attacks targeting cryptocurrency owners, especially in France, where robbery attempts connected to crypto happen roughly every five days. Some victims, like the mother of a TV host, even had kidnappers asking for ransom in Bitcoin. With threats rising, crypto companies now see personal security as a business expense, covering bodyguards, safe houses, and travel upgrades for top executives. Coinbase’s CEO leads the pack in spending. In 2025, the company shelled out over $7. 6 million on Brian Armstrong’s safety—roughly $21, 000 daily. That’s a huge jump from $6. 2 million the year before. Meanwhile, the company’s president got a tiny fraction: only $43, 500. That’s like buying one day of Armstrong’s protection. Gemini also pays top dollar for its twin bosses, the Winklevoss brothers, covering almost $2. 5 million each for travel and home security. Still, that’s only about a third of what Coinbase drops on Armstrong.Other firms show sharp differences in how much they value security. Strategy pays just $272, 000 a year to protect its chairman, Michael Saylor—that’s barely 3. 6% of Armstrong’s tab. Circle, the company behind the USDC stablecoin, spends over $4 million on its CEO’s safety but also covers smaller upgrades for other leaders like the CFO and COO. Then there are the companies staying silent. Bullish didn’t even mention security in its financial report, while others like Galaxy Digital and Riot don’t list it either. Not everyone getting paid for safety wears a suit. British politician Nigel Farage recently revealed he received $6. 7 million from a Tether shareholder. Farage says the money is a “gift for lifelong Brexit work, ” but he also admitted it helps him stay safe. Critics say the donation reflects a close bond with crypto investors. While Farage denies any strings attached, the situation raises questions about political ties and financial influence in the crypto world.