Vaulted CEO Warns Quantum Computing Could Break Bitcoin Within 4 Years

Vaulted CEO predicts quantum threats may end Bitcoin within four years, citing exposed public keys. Developers debate BIP-360/361 migration strategies to secure assets against potential decryption.

Woofun AI reports that Vaulted CEO David McAlvany asserts Bitcoin could cease to exist within four years if quantum computers solve private key protection problems. He acknowledged uncertainty regarding the timeline, noting no current quantum computer can break Bitcoin's encryption. Galaxy Digital estimates 7 million BTC addresses with exposed public keys hold approximately $470 billion, while Glassnode cites 6.04 million BTC, or 30.2% of supply. Public key exposure alone does not imply theft; risk arises only if quantum devices derive private keys. McAlvany compared Bitcoin’s longevity to gold, expressing doubt about Bitcoin’s existence in 5,000 years.

Developers are divided on solutions: BIP-360 proposes quantum-resistant address types, while BIP-361 plans to phase out old signatures, potentially freezing unmigrated assets like those attributed to Satoshi Nakamoto. Supporters argue freezing prevents theft, while critics label it confiscation. Companies like BOLTS Technologies and American Fortress are developing cross-chain quantum-resistant solutions. American Fortress raised $8 million in May, claiming its technology protects assets without address migration, though technical papers remain unpublished and designs lack public audits.