Bitcoin Developer Wants to Fight Quantum Computing Threat—Before It's a Problem
Bitcoin developers are addressing the potential threat of quantum decryption to the cryptocurrency. A proposal by Agustin Cruz suggests migrating to Quantum-Resistant Address Migration Protocol (QRAMP) addresses to protect Bitcoin from future quantum attacks. Currently, Bitcoin uses ECDSA for digital signatures, which could be compromised by quantum computers. QRAMP would conceal public keys until transactions occur, minimizing exposure to quantum threats. Users must transition from ECDSA addresses to quantum-resistant ones by a set deadline. Implementation challenges include technical and social resistance, necessitating clear communication about risks. Experts warn that while classical supercomputers take billions of years to break Bitcoin's encryption, quantum computers could do so in hours. Similar concerns are emerging in other blockchain ecosystems, with proposals for protective measures from Ethereum and Solana developers. The overarching goal is to ensure Bitcoin's long-term security against quantum threats.
