A report from Galaxy Digital highlights that while quantum computers pose a potential threat to some Bitcoin wallets, ongoing efforts by developers aim to mitigate these vulnerabilities.
Galaxy Digital research analyst Will Owens reports that quantum computing poses a real risk to some crypto wallets, but not all are equally vulnerable. In a recent analysis, Owens explained that a quantum computer could potentially derive private keys from exposed public keys, enabling attackers to steal funds.
Wallets are at risk only when their public keys are visible on the blockchain, according to Owens. This exposure occurs in two main ways: when keys are already public or when they are revealed during transactions.
Developer Responses to Quantum Threats
Contrary to some criticisms, Owens notes that Bitcoin Core developers are actively working on quantum vulnerabilities. Proposals like the soft fork BIP 360 have seen accelerated development since late 2025, with experienced contributors reviewing and debating solutions.
The ecosystem has concrete proposals that address the full scope of quantum risks, and these are not just theoretical but under active development. Owens emphasizes that key figures in the Bitcoin community are aligned on the need for security enhancements.
Other experts, such as Crypto OG Willy Woo, have suggested practical measures like holding Bitcoin in SegWit wallets to protect funds until a comprehensive solution is implemented. This advice stems from Woo's comments made last November.
Despite these efforts, governance remains a challenge due to Bitcoin's decentralized structure, with no central authority to enforce updates. Owens points out that this external threat aligns incentives across network participants, from miners to holders, to ensure ongoing security.
For investors, Owens' key takeaway is that the quantum risk is recognized and being addressed by those best equipped to handle it, providing a proactive approach to safeguarding crypto assets.
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