Reports indicate that Bitcoin's vulnerability to quantum computers lies not in decrypting on-chain data, but in exploiting digital signatures linked to exposed public keys. Unlike encryption, which hides information, Bitcoin's blockchain is a public ledger. The real quantum risk involves authorization forgery, where a quantum computer could derive a private key from a public key using Shor’s algorithm. According to Adam Back, Bitcoin developer, the focus should be on understanding that Bitcoin does not use encryption. Project Eleven tracks quantum-vulnerable addresses, estimating about 6.7 million BTC are at risk due to public key exposure. Taproot outputs (P2TR) alter exposure patterns, becoming relevant if quantum key recovery becomes feasible. The risk is measurable today, even if not imminent.

Reports indicate that Bitcoin's vulnerability to quantum computers lies not in decrypting on-chain data, but in exploiting digital signatures linked to exposed public keys. Unlike encryption, which hides information, Bitcoin's blockchain is a public ledger. The real quantum risk involves authorization forgery, where a quantum computer could derive a private key from a public key using Shor’s algorithm. According to Adam Back, Bitcoin developer, the focus should be on understanding that Bitcoin does not use encryption. Project Eleven tracks quantum-vulnerable addresses, estimating about 6.7 million BTC are at risk due to public key exposure. Taproot outputs (P2TR) alter exposure patterns, becoming relevant if quantum key recovery becomes feasible. The risk is measurable today, even if not imminent.