Physical extortion is the use of threats, intimidation, kidnapping, burglary, or violence to force a victim to hand over money, credentials, or access. In cyber security, it matters because the attacker is no longer trying to break the software first; instead, they pressure the person who can unlock the system, reveal a seed phrase, approve a transfer, or hand over a device.
This tactic is especially dangerous for cryptocurrency holders, executives, and anyone with valuable accounts or secrets. It can bypass strong passwords, encryption, and multi-factor authentication if the victim is coerced in person. Defenses focus on reducing exposure: limit public disclosure of assets, separate storage and access, use strong personal security habits, and plan for emergency responses that protect both digital and physical safety.