Quantum Computing Threat to Crypto Still Theoretical
Fears that quantum computing could break cryptocurrency security by 2026 are largely exaggerated, according to experts from Argentum AI and Coin Bureau. While quantum technology is advancing, specialists say it remains far from powerful enough to threaten major blockchain networks in the near term.
Clark Alexander, Head of AI at Argentum AI, noted that commercial quantum computing applications will stay extremely limited over the next few years. Coin Bureau co-founder Nic Puckrin added that most of the current concern is driven by hype, estimating it may take another decade before quantum machines can realistically break today’s cryptographic systems.
Experts acknowledge long-term risks, particularly to public key cryptography such as Bitcoin’s ECDSA, while SHA-256 is considered more resilient. Although around 25–30% of Bitcoin is held in addresses with exposed public keys, the main near-term concern is a “collect now, decrypt later” strategy rather than an immediate network collapse.
Overall, a quantum-driven crypto crisis is unlikely before 2026, but the industry is already preparing by exploring quantum-resistant security solutions for the future.
