SAN FRANCISCO (Diya TV) — A thief posing as a delivery driver robbed a San Francisco homeowner of roughly $11 million in cryptocurrency early Saturday, according to a police report reviewed by local media. The heist happened in the Mission Dolores neighborhood and has raised fresh concerns about rising in-person attacks targeting digital asset holders.
Police say the robbery took place around 6:45 a.m. near 18th and Dolores streets. Investigators report that the suspect approached the home dressed as a delivery worker. The resident opened the door, and the suspect then pulled out a gun and forced his way inside. Officers say the intruder used duct tape to bind the homeowner before stealing digital assets, a laptop, and a phone. The suspect fled the scene and has not been located.
Authorities have not said whether the victim suffered injuries. Police also have not confirmed any arrests. The San Francisco Police Department did not respond to media requests for further information, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. Attempts to reach the person listed in public records as the homeowner were not successful. The case remains under investigation.
The incident highlights a growing trend in cryptocurrency crime. Analysts note that criminals are moving beyond online hacks and are targeting individuals directly. These coercive thefts, often called “wrench attacks,” involve physical force to obtain access to private keys or digital wallets. Cybersecurity researchers say this type of crime has increased as more people store large amounts of cryptocurrency in personal wallets.
Chainalysis, a blockchain analysis firm, reported in its 2025 review that illicit transactions reached record levels last year. The company also found a growing share of thefts tied to individual wallet holders, not major exchanges. Experts say the shift reflects stronger security systems at exchanges and weaker personal security practices in private homes.
Criminals often use tactics that lower victims’ defenses. Posing as delivery personnel has become a common method because people expect packages and frequently open their doors without suspicion. Police and security experts warn that cryptocurrency investors should take extra precautions, especially if they store large amounts of digital assets at home.
Residents in Mission Dolores expressed concern after news of the robbery spread. The neighborhood, known for its mix of historic homes, small businesses, and busy foot traffic, has seen property crimes but rarely robberies involving such high-value digital assets. Neighbors say the incident underscores how quickly criminals are adapting to new forms of wealth and technology.
Security experts recommend that cryptocurrency holders use cold wallets, store sensitive information offline, and avoid discussing digital assets publicly. They also advise investors to treat home security as seriously as financial security. This includes strong door hardware, surveillance systems, and caution when opening the door to unknown visitors.
San Francisco police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage in the area. They have not disclosed details about the suspect’s appearance or whether more than one person may have been involved. Because cryptocurrency can move quickly across digital networks, investigators often rely on both physical evidence and blockchain analysis tools to track stolen funds.
The robbery comes as law enforcement agencies nationwide adjust to new trends in digital asset crimes. Officers face challenges because criminals can convert or transfer stolen cryptocurrency within minutes. Still, blockchain transactions leave digital trails that can sometimes help investigators trace the movement of funds, even months later.
For now, police continue to search for the suspect. The homeowner, who authorities have not identified, is cooperating with investigators. The case serves as a stark reminder that cryptocurrency holdings can make individuals targets in both digital and real-world environments.
