Cryptocurrency Expert Yakovenko Issues Alert on Quantum Computing Threat to Bitcoin Integrity
In a recent podcast at the All-In Summit 2025, Anatoly Yakovenko, co-founder of Solana, raised concerns about the impending quantum computing threat to the cryptocurrency market, particularly Bitcoin. Yakovenko emphasised the necessity of transitioning to quantum-resistant infrastructure to safeguard client confidence and protect valuable assets.
The primary risk centers on the vulnerability of Bitcoin's current signature scheme, ECDSA. Quantum computing, with its potential to crack discrete logarithm problems, could expose historical transactions and wallet addresses. Yakovenko highlighted this dependence on ECDSA as a critical point that leaves Bitcoin exposed once sufficiently advanced quantum computers become available.
Any changes to the infrastructure would likely necessitate an overhaul in wallet designs to align with updated protocols. Yakovenko advised the industry to start moving towards quantum-resistant signature schemes like hash-based or lattice cryptography, suggesting that the time to invest and transition is now.
The open and decentralized nature of Bitcoin makes reaching an agreement on these changes more challenging. However, Yakovenko encouraged cooperative problem-solving and comprehensive education, transparent auditing processes, and robust open-source development practices.
If the crypto market doesn't prioritize this transition, the risks are only going to mount. The Bitcoin ecosystem is currently assessing the implications of a major shift, including potential forks, updates to wallet standards, and the possibility of replacing ECDSA with quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms.
Yakovenko also urged major technology firms like Google and Apple to start integrating quantum-resistant protocols into their infrastructure. A prompt and decisive response to the quantum computing challenge could position the industry as an innovator, turning a serious threat into a competitive advantage.
However, there are currently no widely endorsed or concrete migration plans within the Bitcoin community for transitioning to quantum-resistant cryptographic schemes, and no clear timeline for such a transition phase has been established.
Yakovenko warned that a breakthrough in quantum computing could enable attackers to exploit Bitcoin's reliance on ECDSA, potentially compromising previous transactions. Adopting post-quantum signature protocols, building consensus among stakeholders, and having a proactive upgrade plan are necessary steps to mitigate these risks.
In conclusion, the advancement in quantum computing is happening faster than anticipated, and there is a 50/50 chance of a major breakthrough within the next five years. It is crucial for the crypto industry to act promptly and decisively to protect its assets and maintain client confidence.
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