OSINT Analytics: Kidnapping of Ledger Co-founder
Special Report for DonOperInfo OSINT Analytics: Kidnapping of Ledger Co-founder Event Context On January 21, 2025, Ledger co-founder David Balland and his wife became victims of an organized criminal attack in France. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of 10 million euros in cryptocurrency. To increase pressure, they cut off Balland's finger and sent the video to his colleague, Éric Larchevêque. Part of the ransom was paid, but thanks to the prompt actions of the French intelligence services, the couple was released and 10 suspects were arrested. Most of the transferred funds were tracked and frozen. Source: Coindesk OSINT Analysis Geolocation and Travel Routes According to open sources, Balland's house is located in the Cher department, France. Possible points for tracking criminals: surveillance cameras, bank transactions, blockchain transaction analysis. Digital Traces of Criminals The kidnappers demanded a ransom in cryptocurrency. The use of blockchain an...