Brazil joins US, Canada, Russia, Australia, Indonesia, Japan, and Singapore, countries now under heightened scrutiny for crypto holder travellers. As more people invest in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies, the risks associated with these digital assets have surged. This new list of travel warnings highlights the rising threats to cryptocurrency holders when travelling in these nations.
Whether you’re carrying Bitcoin or Ethereum, the risks are real and growing. Travel and Tour World urges you to read this entire article to understand how these countries impact the safety of your digital wealth. Don’t let your next travel experience turn into a nightmare. Stay informed about Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrency risks before your next trip!
The world of cryptocurrency is booming, with millions of individuals now holding some form of digital asset. While crypto offers tremendous opportunities, it also brings unprecedented risks—especially when it comes to global travel. Research from Hyperion has uncovered alarming findings about the threats faced by crypto holders in different nations, highlighting how dangerous certain countries have become for high-net-worth individuals holding Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies. In this article, we dive into the findings of the Hyperion report, detailing the cyber, physical, and telecommunication risks in the 15 riskiest countries for crypto holders in 2025. The reality is that crypto holders are more vulnerable than ever before, and this global ranking will leave you questioning the safety of your digital assets.
Russia is ranked as the riskiest country for crypto holders in 2025. Combining severe physical and cyber risks, this nation stands at the top of the global risk rankings. Russia’s homicide rates are alarmingly high at 8.2 per 100,000 people. Coupled with a Level 4 US State Department travel advisory, the country is one of the most dangerous places for travellers, especially for those with significant cryptocurrency holdings. Furthermore, Russia is a hotbed for ransomware operators and illicit crypto flows, as repeatedly highlighted in Chainalysis reports. These factors, alongside relatively low Bitcoin ATM density, position Russia as the top country where crypto holders face the highest risk of financial loss, physical harm, and digital threats.
The United States comes in at a close second, driven primarily by the unparalleled exposure to cryptocurrency. With over 31,000 Bitcoin ATMs scattered across the country, the US has the highest number of crypto machines worldwide. However, the exposure is not just physical; cybercrime losses in the US have skyrocketed, with the FBI reporting $9.3 billion in crypto-related losses in 2024 alone. Additionally, SIM-swap fraud is a growing issue, with nearly $26 million in losses reported due to this tactic. While the homicide rate in the US (6.8 per 100,000) is lower than Brazil or Russia, the sheer scale of cybercrime and crypto exposure makes it one of the riskiest places for digital asset holders in the world.
Brazil, ranked third in the global crypto risk index, presents an entirely different set of dangers for digital asset holders. Brazil’s homicide rate of 25 per 100,000 people is the highest among major economies. Despite the relatively low number of Bitcoin ATMs (about 90 nationwide), the country is riddled with extortion, kidnapping, and violence, which pose a constant threat to wealthy crypto holders. While official US advisories rate Brazil at Level 2, experts warn that these risks are severely understated. The combination of high crime rates and a volatile environment makes Brazil an extremely dangerous destination for those holding significant cryptocurrency wealth.
Indonesia ranks fourth in the global risk index. While the country has a relatively low Bitcoin ATM density (~1 ATM per million residents), the risks faced by crypto holders are still considerable. Indonesia’s cyber risk score is high, mainly due to its susceptibility to phishing attacks and other forms of digital fraud. The physical risks come from a lower level of personal security, with incidents of theft and violent crime posing a serious concern. Indonesia’s telecommunication infrastructure is also vulnerable to SIM-swap fraud, which further exacerbates the exposure to digital asset theft.
Australia ranks fifth on the list, primarily due to an alarming rise in cybercrime. The country has witnessed a 240% rise in SIM-swap fraud, making it one of the fastest-growing sources of digital asset theft. Although Australia’s physical crime rates remain relatively low, with a homicide rate of just 1.4 per 100,000, the country’s vulnerability to online fraud makes it a dangerous environment for crypto holders. Furthermore, the exposure score is high, with a large number of Bitcoin ATMs found across the country, providing easy access for criminals seeking to exploit the crypto ecosystem.
Canada is ranked sixth, with an overall ECTI score that signals a serious risk to crypto holders. While the country boasts relatively low physical crime rates, with a homicide rate of 4 per 100,000 people, it still faces significant cyber risks. Canada ranks high for SIM-swap fraud, contributing to a notable increase in crypto theft. The country’s widespread use of digital technology makes it a prime target for cybercriminals looking to exploit crypto holders. Despite its physical safety, Canada’s susceptibility to digital threats puts crypto holders at risk of losing their assets.
Germany and the UK rank seventh and eighth, respectively, with both countries facing significant cyber threats. Germany’s cybercrime score is alarmingly high, with a strong presence of ransomware attacks targeting crypto holders. The UK, meanwhile, has experienced a staggering 1,055% surge in SIM-swap fraud over the past year, making it one of the most dangerous places for crypto holders in terms of telecommunication risks. With the increasing frequency of fraud, crypto holders in both Germany and the UK need to be particularly vigilant when engaging in digital transactions or traveling with significant digital wealth.
Japan and Singapore stand out as the safest countries for crypto holders, ranking among the lowest in terms of risk. Both countries boast very low homicide rates, with Singapore being one of the safest places globally. Additionally, Japan and Singapore have stringent laws surrounding SIM card registration, which significantly reduces the risk of SIM-swap fraud. Both nations also have limited exposure to Bitcoin ATMs, making them less susceptible to theft and fraud. These safety measures, combined with strong telecommunications infrastructure, make Japan and Singapore ideal locations for crypto holders seeking security and peace of mind.
The Hyperion risk index considers four key factors to assess the level of danger posed to crypto holders in each country:
The final score, known as the ECTI (Electronic Crypto Threat Index), combines these factors to rank countries in terms of overall risk.
As crypto adoption continues to rise, so does the need for vigilance. Whether you are travelling for business, leisure, or investment purposes, understanding the risks associated with holding digital assets in certain countries is essential. From cyber threats to physical safety, these risks cannot be ignored. In 2025, it is more important than ever for crypto holders to stay informed, take precautions, and ensure they are well-prepared when travelling to countries with high exposure to digital asset theft and crime.
Stay Vigilant and Secure Your Crypto Wealth
In conclusion, the digital currency landscape is riddled with risks, especially for those who travel or hold significant crypto assets. Understanding where these dangers lie and staying informed about the highest-risk countries for crypto holders is crucial for safeguarding your investments. The 15 nations highlighted in this report serve as a warning for those looking to travel with or invest in digital currencies. Protect your wealth, stay informed, and make sure you are prepared to face these threats head-on in 2025.
Credit:  Hyperion
