Bitcoin's quantum threat is not going away, analysts warn
Research indicates a significant amount of Bitcoin, over $450 billion worth, could be vulnerable to future quantum computing attacks.Summary
Recent research from Google, Caltech, and Oratomic suggests that approximately 6.7 million BTC (over $450 billion) stored in older wallets with exposed public keys could be at risk from future quantum computing advancements. The vulnerability centers on legacy wallets, including those from Bitcoin’s early mining era, holding around 50 BTC each. While some early holders appear to be moving their coins – over 85,000 BTC from Satoshi-era or decade-old wallets have moved in the past year – analysts are divided on the immediacy of the threat. Some, like Charles Edwards, believe Bitcoin won’t reach new all-time highs until the quantum risk is addressed, while others, such as Jameson Lopp, remain skeptical about the timeline for a cryptographically relevant quantum computer. The report coincided with a 3.5% drop in BTC’s price, and some analysts predict a potential bottom in the $40,000-$50,000 range due to both quantum concerns and broader macroeconomic pressures.
(Source：Cointelegraph)