Solana Co-Founder Warns Bitcoin of Quantum Computing Security Threat

Solana co-founder Anatoly Yakovenko emphasized the need for Bitcoin developers to prepare for quantum computing advances that could compromise current security measures.

Yakovenko mentioned a "50/50" chance that quantum computers could break Bitcoin's cryptographic protections within five years.
He suggested migrating Bitcoin to a quantum-resistant signature scheme to counteract this threat.
The concern is that quantum algorithms, like Shor’s, could crack the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm used for Bitcoin private keys, risking transaction forgery and wallet compromises.

Community Response

Migrating to post-quantum cryptography would require a complex hard fork and broad network support.
Some in the crypto community, including Blockstream's CEO Adam Back, believe the threat is not imminent.
Bitcoin Core contributors Peter Todd and Luke Dashjr also downplayed the immediate threat of quantum computing.
Yakovenko cited rapid AI advancements as evidence of how quickly technology can evolve, urging readiness for when tech giants adopt quantum-safe cryptography.