A former hacker turned CEO of Naoris Protocol warns that quantum computers pose an imminent threat to Bitcoin’s security. David Carvalho’s concerns are fueled by the rapid advancements in quantum computing, which could potentially break Bitcoin’s cryptographic defenses. The blockchain relies on SHA-256 and Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA) protections, but these might not withstand the coming wave of quantum computing and AI-driven breakthroughs.
Carvalho argues that a tactic known as “harvest now, decrypt later” allows attackers to stockpile encrypted Bitcoin transactions, waiting for future machines powerful enough to crack the private keys. This vulnerability is exacerbated by the mix of AI in crypto and quantum technology, which may speed up the timeline dramatically.
According to Carvalho, roughly 25%-30% of all Bitcoin sits in legacy address types, leaving them instantly vulnerable once quantum attacks become feasible. He warns that the transition window is already narrowing, and if the industry hesitates on upgrades, it could discover too late that the risk of quantum disruption wasn’t a distant “someday.”
Carvalho’s warning suggests a “silent collapse of Bitcoin systems,” where AI-driven quantum attacks break signatures, transfer funds, and bypass detection entirely. Conventional security measures would prove almost useless in this scenario.
Developers are taking the quantum threat seriously, with several defensive efforts underway. However, these solutions face challenges due to Bitcoin’s decentralized nature. A coordinated effort among miners, node operators, wallet providers, and users is necessary to upgrade the blockchain’s signature scheme and migrate to post-quantum cryptography.
While some experts dismiss the narrative as exaggerated, others agree that preparing now for quantum computing’s potential threat is safer than scrambling later. With a controlled upgrade, the transition to post-quantum cryptography might look achievable, but delaying too long could lead to a “silent collapse” of Bitcoin systems.
Source: https://cointelegraph.com/explained/why-a-hacker-turned-ceo-believes-quantum-tech-could-break-bitcoin