Quantum threat could freeze 1 million BTC linked to Satoshi, expert warns
CryptoQuant CEO Ki Young Ju stated that a quantum upgrade of the Bitcoin network might require freezing about 1 million BTC related to Satoshi Nakamoto, as well as millions of coins on old addresses. This is significant as quantum computers could jeopardise the security of existing blockchain technologies.
According to the expert’s estimates, approximately 6.89 million BTC are potentially vulnerable since quantum advancements could enable private keys to be derived from public addresses. The issue is not only technological but also relates to network consensus: freezing "dormant" coins contradicts Bitcoin’s philosophy and could lead to network splits and new forks.
This poses complex challenges for the community and highlights the need to develop new solutions addressing quantum threats to prevent future crises within the Bitcoin network.
