Quantum computing threatens millions of Bitcoins on old addresses: why urgent action is needed

AirdropworkerZhang · 2026-02-27T21:02:33+00:00

Leaders in the crypto industry warn of the risk posed by quantum computing to nearly 7 million Bitcoin stored in old addresses. These dormant assets, which have never been moved, are particularly vulnerable. Experts emphasize the need for both technological solutions and community consensus to protect these funds, urging an open dialogue about strategies before it's too late.

AirdropworkerZhang

2026-02-27 21:02:33

Abstract generation in progress

Crypto industry leaders are sounding the alarm. Nearly 7 million Bitcoin stored on old addresses are at serious risk due to the development of quantum computing. This is not science fiction but a real threat that requires immediate attention from the ecosystem.

Scale of vulnerability: why dormant bitcoins need protection

Analysis shows that a large amount of assets are concentrated on inactive Bitcoin addresses that have never moved since creation. These “sleeping” coins are vulnerable to potential attacks using quantum algorithms. Unlike active holders who regularly conduct transactions, owners of old addresses have not updated their cryptographic keys, making them especially susceptible to new technologies.

Technology and public consensus: two fronts of protection

Experts emphasize that technical solutions alone are not enough. Achieving social consensus within the Bitcoin community is necessary to implement protective measures — in particular, temporarily freezing dormant funds. This means developers need not only to create reliable cryptographic mechanisms but also to convince network participants of the need for these changes.

Why society lags behind technological development

History shows that innovation often faces resistance. Social acceptance of significant changes usually lags behind technological advances. Quantum threats are no exception — many ecosystem participants may not be fully aware of the scale of the potential risk. It is now critically important to start an open dialogue on strategies to protect Bitcoin from quantum computing while the community still has time to prepare and reach consensus.

BTC-6.49%

View Original

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.

1 Likes