On-chain analytics firm Glassnode highlighted several dangers quantum computers pose to Bitcoin (BTC) assets. Recent institutional reports have suggested similar numbers, as experts propose solutions to emerging risks.
30% of Bitcoin Faces Quantum Risk
Glassnode researchers explained in a new report that quantum computers raise the question of Bitcoin security: ‘Which coins are exposed at rest?’ Assets whose public keys are exposed are at the center of debate, with experts citing figures around 30%.
Glassnode says 30.2%, about 6.04 million coins, are exposed and split into two main categories: structural and operational exposure. Structurally exposed coins reveal the public key by design and include pay-to-public-key held by early adopters.
About 1.92 million BTC, accounting for 9.6% of the total supply, are in this category. While most assets might be linked to the pseudonymous founder Satoshi Nakamoto, others might be outrightly linked to most tokens. In recent weeks, the community has proposed several ways to protect dormant assets that have not been moved in the last decade.
Operationally exposed assets were compromised after address reuse. Spending, custody, and other activities are linked to causes with 20.6%, approximately 4.1 million BTC at risk.
 
Crypto exchanges fall under this category, though exposure is uneven across platforms. Notably, centralized exchanges are addressing the security risk posed by quantum computers faster than larger networks.
“This analysis does not take a position on whether, or when, practical quantum attacks against Bitcoin will become possible, nor should it be read as a statement on the security or solvency of any individual custodian. It is a data lens: a way to quantify where public-key exposure already exists, which portions of that exposure are likely persistent…”
This year, blockchain security experts have issued repeated warnings about potential vulnerabilities if a quantum computer breaks cryptography. Google’s first-quarter report projected Q-Day in a few years, prompting community proposals.
XRP, Ethereum, and other networks are gearing up for major changes after launching their roadmaps, but Bitcoin seems to be lagging. Reasons shift from dormant coins to conservative community structures.
Dormant assets cannot be transferred to quantum-resistant addresses while views remain locked on the network’s next steps. This differs from Ethereum, tipped by global finance giant Citi to be in a better position for Q-day. Ethereum has witnessed several upgrades including the Merge, which saw the network switch to a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism.
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