Cryptocurrency experts warn that quantum computers will hack the bitcoin blockchain in ten years

Benchmark analysts said that the threat of quantum computers to bitcoin, although real, is not urgent and may become critical only in a decade. This gives the network time to adapt and implement new cryptographic solutions.

Bitcoin uses cryptographic methods to secure wallets and confirm transactions. In theory, quantum machines are able to calculate private keys based on public information, but this vulnerability only applies to addresses with already published keys. Benchmark estimates that between 1 and 2 million BTC are potentially at risk, which is significantly less than the 7 million previously suggested by some researchers.

Other sources, including K33 Research, estimate the possible vulnerability at 6.8 million BTC. At the same time, experts emphasize that this is a long-term problem that requires coordination on the part of developers, rather than panic sales.

The timing of the risk’s realization remains a subject of discussion. Investor Chamath Pallihapitiya believes that the threat could become relevant in 2−5 years, while cryptographer Adam Beck estimates the horizon at 20−40 years.

Benchmark emphasizes that the bitcoin network is capable of changes: the community has already implemented large-scale updates, including Taproot. Analysts predict that the transition to protection against quantum attacks can occur gradually, without the need for radical or emergency protocol changes.