Michael Saylor, co-founder of MicroStrategy, addressed concerns about quantum computing and Bitcoin security during a recent interview. He stated that quantum threats remain 10 to 20 years away and that Bitcoin would respond through protocol and software upgrades, similar to how global technology systems evolve.
Quantum computers not an immediate risk to Bitcoin's cryptography
Saylor explained that future threats would trigger hardware and software upgrades on the Bitcoin network. He compared Bitcoin to foundational systems like language and mathematics, where users upgrade software rather than abandon the protocol. He also noted that major tech institutions like Google and Microsoft would not release systems that undermine modern cryptography, as that would harm governments, banks, and core infrastructure.
Saylor: Phishing and social engineering pose higher risk than quantum hacks
He argued that phishing attacks are far more likely than quantum-based hacks. Bad actors could exploit fear through fake upgrade messages. As a result, he said he does not worry about quantum threats today. Saylor described Bitcoin as an adaptable protocol that evolves through upgrades, mirroring changes in global messaging and banking systems.
Analyst Woo warns quantum advances could unlock lost BTC supply
Analyst Willy Woo linked quantum concerns to market behavior, noting Bitcoin's long-running valuation trend against gold shifted after quantum risks gained attention. Woo argued that Bitcoin should trade higher relative to gold, although prices moved lower. He said Bitcoin will likely adopt quantum-resistant signatures in the future. However, he raised concerns about lost coins, estimating roughly 4 million BTC remain lost. Quantum advances could make those coins accessible again. Woo added that companies and spot ETFs accumulated about 2.8 million BTC since 2020, and there is a 75% chance Bitcoin would not freeze those coins through a hard fork.