Bitcoin News Update: Quantum Threat Approaches—Cryptocurrency’s Urgent Quest for Survival

The rise of

is steering the cryptocurrency sector toward a pivotal crossroads, as specialists caution that existing cryptographic protections may become ineffective within the next ten years. Although practical quantum threats are still some years off, the need to implement quantum-resistant measures is intensifying alongside rapid technological advancements.

Quantum computers utilize quantum mechanics concepts such as superposition and entanglement, enabling them to tackle complex problems at speeds far beyond traditional computers. This presents a significant threat to blockchain systems, which depend on cryptographic protocols like ECDSA (Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm) and SHA-256 for their security. For example, Shor's algorithm

by resolving the elliptic curve discrete logarithm issue, potentially revealing private keys from public ones. Likewise, Grover's algorithm such as SHA-256 by half, though it would not completely compromise them.

The exact timing of these risks is still under discussion.

suggests that quantum computers capable of cracking Bitcoin’s encryption would need millions of stable qubits—something far beyond what is currently possible. Still, Théau Peronnin, CEO of quantum computing company Alice & Bob, by 2030, potentially putting blockchain security at risk soon after. This view is echoed by Krown Technologies CEO James Stephens, who points out that , saving encrypted data today in hopes of decrypting it in the future.

The sector is taking steps to get ahead of the threat. has completed standards for post-quantum cryptography (PQC), including lattice-based algorithms like CRYSTALS-Kyber and Dilithium, which are built to resist quantum attacks. At the same time, companies such as Krown Technologies and Alice & Bob and embedding error-correction features directly into hardware to postpone the quantum threat. , which blend traditional and post-quantum algorithms, are also being adopted to maintain compatibility during the transition period.

Collaboration between regulators and institutions is essential.

, for instance, is enhancing cooperation between hardware manufacturers like IQM Quantum Computers and software firms to speed up commercialization. In the United States, , with government agencies encouraging the private sector to get ready. mining company Bitfury, now shifting toward ethical AI and crypto investments, has , reflecting the industry’s evolving focus.

Despite these advances, obstacles remain.

, and ensuring the environmental stability needed for quantum devices are still major challenges. Additionally, there is a clear "quantum readiness" gap: that many organizations have yet to develop thorough plans for transitioning to PQC.

As time runs short, specialists are calling for prompt action.

, keeping track of PQC standardization, and implementing crypto-agile frameworks to safeguard systems for the future. For blockchain platforms, the consequences are critical: failing to evolve could erode the core security that underpins decentralized finance.

With quantum computing progressing more rapidly than expected, the opportunity to prepare is shrinking.

—a clear signal that the quantum age requires constant vigilance.