Quantum computers pose a significant threat to Bitcoin's security within five years.

From Cointelegraph

June 14, 2025 11:00 AM:

Satoshi Nakamoto established a decentralized monetary system with Bitcoin after the 2008 financial crisis. The rise of quantum computing poses the biggest threat to Bitcoin’s security, with predictions of cryptography being compromised within five years. Quantum computers could render Bitcoin vulnerable, jeopardizing its $2.2 trillion market cap.

Microsoft’s Majorana chip accelerated the development of quantum supercomputers, with around 100 already in operation worldwide. McKinsey estimates 5,000 quantum computers by 2030, running calculations in parallel. Classical cryptography like ECDSA protecting Bitcoin’s keys could be vulnerable to quantum attacks, potentially impacting 30% of Bitcoin currently stored in vulnerable addresses.

“Q-Day” is when quantum computers can break traditional cryptography, potentially exposing past Bitcoin transactions. Bad actors are preparing for this day by collecting encrypted data now to decrypt later. Bitcoin’s transparent blockchain could face simultaneous global attacks, emphasizing the need for readiness.

Transitioning Bitcoin to post-quantum cryptography through a hard fork poses challenges like UX disruption and network fragmentation. Hybrid solutions, layered security models, and quantum-secure key management are being explored to enhance Bitcoin’s security against quantum threats. The community must act swiftly and decisively to evolve Bitcoin for a post-quantum future, as complacency poses the greatest risk.

Read more at CoinTelegraph: Quantum computers could break Bitcoin’s security within five years.