Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino has predicted that quantum computing could exploit older Bitcoin wallets and unlock lost assets.
In the future, it might be possible to recover the lost BTC tokens from Bitcoin founder Satoshi Nakamoto. This is according to Tether’s Ardoino, who has predicted that quantum computing could unlock older inactive Bitcoin wallets and bring their stash back into circulation.
Here’s How
In a recent post, the Tether CEO pointed out that quantum computing is advancing rapidly. He noted that the evolving technology could threaten the safety of ancient Bitcoin addresses.
Prediction.
Quantum computing is still very far from any meaningful risk of breaking Bitcoin cryptography.
Quantum resistant addresses will eventually be added to Bitcoin before there is any serious threat.All people alive (and that have access to their wallets) will move…
— Paolo Ardoino 🤖🍐 (@paoloardoino) February 8, 2025
Specifically, Ardoino pointed to older wallets without quantum resistance. For context, earlier Bitcoin wallets had Pay-to-Public Key (P2PK) models, which exposed the addresses’ public keys for public view.
Once fully secured, the innovation could soon become significantly vulnerable, especially with the advancement of quantum computing. Hence, lost wallets, including Satoshi Nakamoto’s, risk retrieval if they retain the older security model.
Meanwhile, Ardoino insisted that pioneering holders could avert this risk if they moved their bitcoins to newer wallets with better protection against quantum computing. However, this would be possible if owners are still alive and can access their private keys.
Crypto Still Far Ahead of Quantum Threat
Moreover, the Italian computer scientist stated that Bitcoin cryptography remains far ahead of any meaningful threat from quantum computing. Furthermore, he predicted that the blockchain would advance to adopt quantum-resistant addresses in the near term.
The new technology will invalidate any threat as Bitcoin wallet users ditch vulnerable addresses for more secure ones. Meanwhile, the possibility of unlocking Satoshi Nakamoto’s Bitcoin stash if it stays in the P2PK wallet remains, and suggestions that the bitcoins be frozen to avert the risk have emerged.
21 Million Bitcoin Regardless
In a follow-up tweet, Ardoino also addressed concerns that quantum computing might alter Bitcoin’s scarce characteristics. He boldly affirmed that there are and will always be 21 million BTC, and nothing can change that.
He further lauded Bitcoin as the best asset in the world, mimicking Michael Saylor’s popular opinion. Meanwhile, the Bitcoin and crypto ecosystem has evolved over the years from its nascent stage to a multi-trillion-dollar industry, reinstating its adaptability and staying power.
DisClamier: This content is informational and should not be considered financial advice. The views expressed in this article may include the author's personal opinions and do not reflect The Crypto Basic opinion. Readers are encouraged to do thorough research before making any investment decisions. The Crypto Basic is not responsible for any financial losses.
