Quantum computing risk puts 7 million BTC including Satoshi Nakamoto's 1 million at stake

CoinDesk

by Olivier Acuna

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Quantum computing poses a significant threat to Bitcoin security, potentially exposing over $440 billion in cryptocurrency, including 1 million BTC linked to Satoshi Nakamoto. As quantum systems advance, approximately 6.98 million Bitcoin could be at risk of theft due to vulnerabilities in early cryptographic methods. At today's prices, this represents a staggering $440 billion in value. The exposure stems from "pay-to-public-key" transactions in Bitcoin's early years, where public keys were directly revealed on the blockchain. Once a key is exposed, it remains vulnerable indefinitely. If quantum computers can break encryption, these exposed keys could be exploited, allowing malicious actors to steal coins. This risk particularly affects Satoshi Nakamoto's 1 million BTC, which would be worth around $67.6 billion today. Experts disagree on how to address this threat. Some argue for freezing vulnerable coins to protect users, while others advocate for cryptographic upgrades and voluntary migrations to quantum-resistant systems. Critics warn that freezing coins could undermine Bitcoin's neutrality and immutability, setting a precedent for future interventions. Meanwhile, proponents of "code is law" believe ownership should remain unchanged, with the market absorbing any potential inflation from lost or stolen coins. The debate highlights the tension between security and protocol integrity. While upgrades to Bitcoin's cryptography are underway, the lack of reliable methods to distinguish between lost and dormant coins complicates solutions. Some predict that quantum breakthroughs could lead to a massive redistribution of wealth, while others emphasize the importance of maintaining Bitcoin's foundational principles. This issue matters deeply to crypto enthusiasts, as it challenges the very nature of blockchain security and ownership. The outcome will shape Bitcoin's future, balancing innovation with its core values of decentralization and immutability.

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Originally published on CoinDesk on 2/22/2026