Quantum computers could bring lost Bitcoin back to life
Quantum technology enhances data processing and problem-solving speed significantly, originating from quantum mechanics. It poses risks to Bitcoin by potentially undermining the cryptography securing its network, particularly the ECDSA used for generating Bitcoin wallet keys. The Shor algorithm developed in 1994 could allow a strong quantum computer to derive private keys from public keys, which is a future concern for Bitcoin security. An estimated 2.3 million to 3.7 million Bitcoin are considered permanently lost. If quantum technology revives these wallets by cracking cryptographic keys, it may disrupt Bitcoin’s scarcity and market value. To protect Bitcoin from quantum threats, users should minimize public key exposure, avoid address reuse, and utilize wallets supporting enhanced security protocols. Research into quantum-resistant wallets and cryptographic techniques is ongoing, and while quantum computers may pose a future risk, Bitcoin remains resilient for now as defenses are developed.
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