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31 Mar 2026, 18:05
The post-quantum transition can’t be postponed any longer
Google’s new research potentially puts the entire bitcoin supply – and the very foundation of digital trust – at risk, explains Pruden.
31 Mar 2026, 18:02
Ethereum’s top 1,000 wallets could lose 20.5M ETH in 9 days without a quantum-resistant upgrade
The top 1,000 wealthiest wallets on the Ethereum ( ETH ) network could be systematically drained in 9 days by an attacker equipped with a sufficiently powerful quantum computer, according to new research. The research published on March 31 by the Google Quantum AI team found that the majority of Ethereum accounts have already initiated at least one transaction, thereby making their public keys visible and their funds quantum-vulnerable. Together, the top vulnerable Ethereum accounts hold approximately 20.5 million ETH, which is valued at about $4.27 billion at press time. Ethereum account vulnerability. Source: Google The Ethereum accounts that have never sent a transaction remain safe for now, since their public keys are still masked behind their wallet address. Is there a solution to quantum attacks on Ethereum? The research highlighted Account Abstraction (AA) as Ethereum’s most cited quantum defense through the 2023 ERC-4337 upgrade. The upgrade improves flexibility and reduces reliance on static keys, but it cannot hide a public key that is already on-chain. As such, the paper concluded that AA only treats the symptoms rather than the root cause. Last month, Vitalik Buterin, co-founder of the Ethereum network, proposed a roadmap to strengthen the network’s quantum resistance. Buterin’s proposal aims to address four vulnerabilities: consensus signatures, data availability, wallet signatures, and application-layer zero-knowledge proofs. However, the public keys of the top wealthiest accounts that have already transacted are exposed to quantum attacks and are not covered by these proposals. Meanwhile, the Ethereum community has been relying on a post-quantum team , led by Thomas Coratger, to ensure a smooth transition without any loss of funds. With the Ethereum network boasting the largest smart contract ecosystem, a secure post-quantum security roadmap is key to maintaining user trust before the end of this decade. The post Ethereum’s top 1,000 wallets could lose 20.5M ETH in 9 days without a quantum-resistant upgrade appeared first on Finbold .
31 Mar 2026, 16:26
Google Research Flags XRP Ledger as Leader in Quantum-Proof Blockchain Tech
A new Google research paper is raising concerns about quantum threats to blockchain systems, and the XRP Ledger enters the discussion amid its early steps toward post-quantum security. Notably, the study was led by Google Quantum AI with help from academic researchers and the Ethereum Foundation. Visit Website
31 Mar 2026, 15:50
Quantum Computing Bitcoin Recovery: Elon Musk Reveals Surprising Silver Lining in Security Threat
BitcoinWorld Quantum Computing Bitcoin Recovery: Elon Musk Reveals Surprising Silver Lining in Security Threat Elon Musk has ignited a crucial conversation about quantum computing’s potential to recover lost Bitcoin wallets, revealing an unexpected dimension to the ongoing quantum security debate that could reshape cryptocurrency’s future. Quantum Computing Bitcoin Security: The Dual-Edged Sword Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk recently commented on X about quantum computing’s potential impact on Bitcoin. Specifically, Musk noted that if quantum computers can break Bitcoin’s cryptographic security, one positive outcome might be recovering wallets with forgotten passwords. This remark came as a reply to crypto venture investor Max Reiff, who had summarized a Google research report suggesting Bitcoin could become vulnerable to quantum attacks sooner than anticipated. The Google report, published yesterday, represents the latest in a series of warnings about quantum computing’s threat to current encryption standards. Meanwhile, Musk’s observation highlights a fascinating paradox: the same technology threatening cryptocurrency security might also solve one of Bitcoin’s most persistent problems. According to Chainalysis data, approximately 20% of existing Bitcoin—worth billions—remains inaccessible in lost wallets. Quantum computers leverage quantum mechanics principles to perform calculations exponentially faster than classical computers. Consequently, they could potentially break the elliptic curve cryptography securing Bitcoin wallets. However, this capability might also enable recovery of funds locked in wallets with lost private keys. The cryptocurrency community now faces a complex security dilemma with profound implications. The Technical Foundation of Quantum Threats Bitcoin’s security relies primarily on two cryptographic algorithms: SHA-256 for mining and ECDSA (Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm) for wallet security. Quantum computers threaten the latter through Shor’s algorithm, which can theoretically solve the mathematical problems underlying ECDSA efficiently. Google’s research suggests practical quantum computers capable of this might emerge within 10-15 years, though estimates vary widely among experts. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has been working on post-quantum cryptography standards since 2016. Furthermore, several cryptocurrency projects have begun exploring quantum-resistant alternatives. For instance, the Quantum Resistant Ledger launched specifically to address this concern. However, Bitcoin’s massive ecosystem presents unique migration challenges that smaller cryptocurrencies don’t face. Quantum Computing Timeline Projections Organization Quantum Threat Timeline Key Finding Google Research 10-15 years Practical quantum advantage for specific problems MIT Technology Review 15-30 years Full-scale quantum computers for cryptography IBM Quantum 10+ years Error-corrected quantum systems needed European Commission 10-20 years Cryptographically relevant quantum computers Expert Perspectives on Quantum Recovery Cryptography experts offer nuanced views on Musk’s recovery suggestion. Dr. Michele Mosca, co-founder of the University of Waterloo’s Institute for Quantum Computing, explains that quantum computers powerful enough to break ECDSA could theoretically reconstruct private keys from public addresses. However, this assumes the public address has been used to receive funds and exists on the blockchain. Mosca emphasizes several technical considerations: Transaction visibility: Only Bitcoin addresses that have completed transactions reveal their public keys Computational resources: Quantum recovery would require significant quantum computing power Timing factors: The race between recovery attempts and malicious attacks creates ethical dilemmas Implementation challenges: Practical quantum recovery systems face substantial engineering hurdles Additionally, blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis estimates that 3-4 million Bitcoin may be permanently lost. Recovery of even a fraction could significantly impact Bitcoin’s circulating supply and market dynamics. The economic implications extend beyond individual wallet owners to affect the entire cryptocurrency ecosystem. Industry Response and Preparedness Strategies The cryptocurrency industry has developed multiple approaches to quantum threats. Bitcoin Core developers have discussed potential protocol upgrades, while alternative cryptocurrencies experiment with quantum-resistant algorithms. Moreover, wallet providers increasingly encourage better key management practices to reduce loss rates. Several key developments demonstrate industry preparedness: Post-quantum cryptography integration: Some altcoins implement lattice-based or hash-based signatures Hybrid approaches: Combining classical and quantum-resistant cryptography during transition periods Key rotation protocols: Systems allowing users to move funds to quantum-secure addresses Education initiatives: Resources helping users understand and implement better security practices Google’s research, referenced in Reiff’s post, represents part of a broader scientific effort to understand quantum computing’s practical timeline. The company’s quantum supremacy demonstration in 2019 marked a milestone, but cryptographically relevant quantum computers remain years away. Meanwhile, the race between quantum advancement and cryptographic defense continues to accelerate. Regulatory and Ethical Considerations Quantum recovery of lost Bitcoin wallets raises significant regulatory questions. Legal frameworks for cryptocurrency vary globally, and recovery of lost assets involves complex ownership verification. Furthermore, ethical considerations emerge regarding who should control recovery technology and how to prevent misuse. Financial regulators worldwide monitor quantum computing developments closely. The U.S. National Quantum Initiative Act of 2018 allocated $1.2 billion for quantum research, recognizing both economic opportunities and security threats. Similarly, the European Union’s Quantum Technologies Flagship program invests €1 billion in quantum development. These initiatives acknowledge quantum computing’s transformative potential across multiple sectors, including finance and cybersecurity. Conclusion Elon Musk’s comments about quantum computing Bitcoin recovery highlight a complex intersection of technology, security, and economics. While quantum computers threaten current cryptographic standards, they might also enable recovery of lost cryptocurrency assets. The cryptocurrency community must balance innovation with security as quantum computing advances. Ongoing research, protocol development, and user education will determine how successfully the ecosystem navigates this quantum transition period. Ultimately, the quantum computing Bitcoin security challenge represents both a threat and an opportunity for technological evolution. FAQs Q1: How could quantum computers recover lost Bitcoin wallets? Quantum computers using Shor’s algorithm could theoretically derive private keys from public addresses on the blockchain. This would allow access to wallets whose keys were lost, provided the public address was visible from previous transactions. Q2: When might quantum computers threaten Bitcoin security? Most experts estimate 10-30 years for quantum computers to break Bitcoin’s ECDSA encryption practically. Google’s recent research suggests this might occur sooner than previously anticipated, though exact timelines remain uncertain. Q3: What is being done to protect Bitcoin from quantum attacks? The cryptocurrency industry explores multiple approaches including post-quantum cryptography, protocol upgrades, and hybrid security systems. Bitcoin developers discuss potential soft forks to implement quantum-resistant algorithms when necessary. Q4: How much Bitcoin is potentially recoverable through quantum methods? Analysts estimate 3-4 million Bitcoin (approximately 20% of supply) might be in lost wallets. However, quantum recovery would only work for addresses with visible public keys from previous transactions, potentially reducing recoverable amounts. Q5: Are other cryptocurrencies addressing quantum threats differently? Yes, several cryptocurrencies implement quantum-resistant algorithms from inception. Projects like Quantum Resistant Ledger, IOTA, and Cardano incorporate or plan to incorporate post-quantum cryptography, though adoption and testing continue. This post Quantum Computing Bitcoin Recovery: Elon Musk Reveals Surprising Silver Lining in Security Threat first appeared on BitcoinWorld .
31 Mar 2026, 15:49
Academic Research Puts XRP Ledger at the Front of Quantum-Resistant Technology
XRP Ledger Emerges as a Leader in Quantum-Resistant Blockchain Security Amid rising quantum computing concerns, the XRP Ledger (XRPL) is leading in blockchain security. Google-backed research confirms XRPL has deployed post-quantum ML-DSA signatures on its alphanet, making it one of the first blockchains actively implementing quantum-proof technology, a milestone the crypto community is closely monitoring. As quantum computing threats loom, Bitcoin and Ethereum remain exposed, while the XRP Ledger is already future-proofing its network. Academic research shows the XRPL as a leading blockchain employing advanced cryptography to withstand next-generation computational risks. The XRP Ledger began its quantum-resistance journey in December last year by introducing transactions secured with Dilithium cryptography. This post-quantum signature algorithm safeguards data against potential attacks from quantum computers, threats that could compromise traditional elliptic curve-based blockchains. By deploying quantum-resistant transactions, XRPL boosts network security and reinforces trust among both institutional and retail participants navigating emerging technological risks. XRPL Leads the Way in Quantum-Resistant Blockchain Security Amid rising concerns about quantum computing, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong stresses that the technology poses no immediate threat to blockchain networks. While forward-looking solutions like XRPL’s quantum-proof protocols are pioneering, today’s blockchain security remains strong and resilient, according to Armstrong. XRPL’s early adoption of ML-DSA signatures and Dilithium cryptography positions it ahead in the race toward quantum-resistant blockchains. By demonstrating that quantum-proof infrastructure is achievable today, the ledger sets a benchmark for the wider ecosystem, turning a theoretical concern into a practical standard. As blockchain technology matures, XRPL’s focus on quantum security could become a defining factor for adoption, research, and long-term stability. In a landscape of inevitable technological disruption, it proves that pioneering security can be as critical as speed, scalability, and decentralization. Conclusion As quantum computing advances, XRP Ledger is emerging as a leader in blockchain security. By deploying post-quantum ML-DSA signatures and Dilithium-powered transactions, XRPL builds a quantum-resistant foundation while most networks remain exposed. Its proactive approach sets a new standard for resilience, giving developers and investors confidence today and charting a secure path for the blockchains of tomorrow.
31 Mar 2026, 15:47
AI power demand surges beyond supply as data center boom strains energy systems and global markets
The AI industry is consuming electricity at a rate that exceeds global production capabilities, leading to simultaneous transformations in energy policy, geopolitics, and the global economy. Sam Altman from OpenAI stated that his company requires a gigawatt of electricity daily. To provide some context, the total amount of new power generation added across the United States in the previous year was approximately 53 gigawatts. The numbers pertaining to the expansion of AI are astounding. It is expected that in 2026, Amazon, Microsoft, Alphabet, and Meta will invest around $630 billion in data centers and chips. When you add the next seven largest cloud and infrastructure providers, that figure increases to $811 billion. The four biggest tech firms run about 600 data centers worldwide, with another 544 either in the planning phase or under construction. Building delays and broken supply chains Building one of these facilities is no small task. A modern 100-megawatt AI data centre costs upward of $4 billion. Around 70% of that goes toward servers and processors. But the real headache is not money, it is getting the thing connected and running. In major cities like London, securing a grid connection can take up to ten years. Companies are moving to rural areas, particularly parts of Texas, where permits are easier to get, but skilled workers are scarce. In some places, tech companies have had to help build entire communities to house their staff. Supply chains are buckling under the pressure. Transformers now have lead times of up to 100 weeks in Europe. Nearly 60% of data centre projects were delayed by more than three months last year. About 88% ran into problems just pouring concrete foundations. Cooling systems and fire alarm installation delayed 78% of projects. The latest Nvidia chips, the Blackwell series and the forthcoming Rubin architecture, generate significantly more heat than previous models. This has led operators to swap out air cooling for liquid cooling systems that require plumbing and water treatment infrastructure. Standard electrical delivery systems are unable to handle the power demands of next-generation server racks, prompting companies to turn to solid-state transformers and placing them in direct competition with the automotive industry for components. Geopolitical risks and declining returns The instability in the Middle East is contributing to the risk factor. Most data centers rely on diesel generators for backup power. Due to regional conflict, fuel supplies are threatened, and oil executives attending the CERAWeek conference in Houston cautioned that supply risks have yet to be factored into market prices. According to Melissa Otto, who leads research at S&P Global Visible Alpha, equity markets could face a significant correction if oil prices remain high over an extended period. The S&P 500 is heading for its worst quarterly performance in about four years, with the tech sector down nearly 8%. The financial returns that tech giants expected from their infrastructure spending are also slipping. Alphabet’s return on invested capital is projected to fall from 51% last year to around 36% by 2030. Microsoft’s share is anticipated to decrease from 95% in 2020 to 36% by 2030. According to some experts, the solution is not to construct additional power infrastructure but rather to utilize the existing resources more effectively. In established Western economies, electricity grids operate at an average utilization rate of about 30%. They reach their limits for only around 100 hours each year. It could offer an extra 100 gigawatts of power without the necessity for any new power plants by managing that spare capacity more effectively. A project between GridCARE and Portland General Electric is already testing this idea, using AI to predict renewable output and shift data centre workloads to times and places where power is available. Analysis suggests that a 1-gigawatt data centre using off-peak grid capacity could cut electricity bills for average consumers by as much as 5%. The message is simple: whoever figures out the power problem first will likely lead the next decade of technological and economic competition. Your keys, your card. Spend without giving up custody and earn 8%+ yield on your balance with Ether.fi Cash.
