Crypto Expert Believes Kidnapper's Bitcoin Demand Revealed 'Achilles' in Ransom Note

Bezalel Eithan Raviv, CEO of Blockchain forensics firm Lionsgate Network, says the criminal's Bitcoin wallet address could help trace their identity.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

According to crypto expert Bezalel Eithan Raviv, the alleged kidnapper of Nancy Guthrie may have revealed a critical clue by insisting on a Bitcoin payment in the ransom note. Raviv, the CEO and founder of Lionsgate Network, a crypto recovery service with expertise in Blockchain forensics, believes the criminal's Bitcoin wallet address could help trace their identity. Raviv explained that cryptocurrency transactions can be easily traced, despite common misconceptions, and that the $6 million ransom demand was a 'very predictable figure' based on historical cases.

Why it matters

This case highlights the potential for cryptocurrency transactions to be traced by law enforcement, despite the perception that crypto is untraceable. Raviv believes the kidnapper may be relying on the lack of crypto expertise among investigators, underscoring the need for more training in blockchain forensics. The story also raises awareness about the risks of cryptocurrency-based ransom demands and the tools available to combat such crimes.

The details

Raviv told Page Six that the kidnapper 'showed his Achilles' by providing a real Bitcoin address in the ransom note. He explained that by sending a small amount of Bitcoin to the wallet, investigators can trace where the funds end up, which could lead them to the criminal. Raviv said there is a common misconception that cryptocurrency is untraceable, but with the right expertise, transactions can be easily tracked. He believes the criminal may be relying on the ignorance of law enforcement when it comes to crypto and blockchain technology.

  • The ransom note reportedly demanded that $6 million in Bitcoin be sent to a real Bitcoin address in exchange for Nancy's release.
  • The note stated two deadlines, one for Feb. 5, and another for Monday, Feb. 9 at 5 p.m. local time.

The players

Bezalel Eithan Raviv

The CEO and founder of Lionsgate Network, a crypto recovery service with expertise in Blockchain forensics.

Nancy Guthrie

The 84-year-old mother of news anchor Savannah Guthrie, who was allegedly kidnapped from her Tucson-area home.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He showed his Achilles to everyone who understands blockchain forensics,”

— Bezalel Eithan Raviv, CEO and founder of Lionsgate Network (Page Six)

“Whenever cyber criminals offer their wallet address is where they basically reveal themselves in many ways,”

— Bezalel Eithan Raviv, CEO and founder of Lionsgate Network (Page Six)

What’s next

Raviv has reached out to investigators to offer his services, and believes that with the right expertise in blockchain forensics, the criminal can be traced through the Bitcoin transaction.

The takeaway

This case highlights the potential for cryptocurrency transactions to be traced, despite the common perception that crypto is untraceable. It underscores the need for law enforcement to develop expertise in blockchain forensics to combat cryptocurrency-based crimes effectively.