a16z2026-10-18 08:09:28a16z Says AI Has Not Broken Modern Cryptography, but Could Speed Up Security Reviewsa16z crypto said recent advances in AI-driven mathematics have not shown that modern cryptographic systems are suddenly weaker, pushing back on fears that new models are on the verge of breaking the foundations of digital security. In a discussion featuring Stanford cryptographer Dan Boneh, a16z crypto general partner Eddy Lazzarin, research partner Justin Thaler, investment partner Liz Harkavy, and editor Sonal Chokshi, the group argued that the latest results belong to mathematics and computer science, not cryptanalysis. The speakers said there is still no evidence that elliptic-curve cryptography has become more fragile or that any specific cryptographic assumption is less secure than before. Thaler added that much of modern cryptography rests on the belief that certain efficient algorithms do not exist at all, meaning a more capable AI system would not automatically find one if none exists. Boneh also pointed to the unresolved P versus NP problem as a reminder that cryptography still depends on assumptions that remain unproven. Where AI may matter sooner, they said, is in compressing years of security review into much shorter cycles, helping researchers and companies test assumptions, audit software, and uncover vulnerabilities before deployment. The discussion also noted that work already done for quantum-readiness and cryptographic agility could help systems respond faster if new weaknesses emerge.20
Ethereum Foun2026-08-18 14:51:13Ethereum Foundation issued $5.5 million in grants in Q2 2026CoinMarketCap disclosed that the Ethereum Foundation distributed a total of $5.5 million in grants during the second quarter of 2026. The funding covered ecosystem development, research tied to zero-knowledge proofs, and security audit work. According to the disclosure, the grant program was designed to support the upcoming Glamsterdam upgrade. The stated focus was on strengthening network infrastructure and improving technical security capacity. The funding was also framed as part of the foundation’s continued effort to support growth across the Ethereum ecosystem. The disclosure links the quarter’s grant activity directly to preparation work around the planned upgrade and the broader technical needs surrounding Ethereum’s development.1440
Coldcard2026-08-05 10:02:37Coldcard incident prompts three takeaways on custody, quantum risk and Bitcoin security cultureThe Coldcard incident has led Muneeb to frame three broader lessons for Bitcoin holders and the wider BTC ecosystem. First, he argues that storage should be diversified rather than concentrated in a single setup, with allocations split across regulated exchange-traded funds such as IBIT, multi-key arrangements like CasaHODL’s three-key model, and more sovereignty-focused hardware wallet strategies for advanced users. Second, he says the threat from quantum computing should be treated seriously, not dismissed, because a real break in cryptographic systems could look to users much like funds suddenly leaving a cold wallet. In his view, the time left to prepare may be measured in years, especially as large language models accelerate scientific progress. Third, he argues that Bitcoin has grown too closed off in some areas and should work more closely with security researchers and firms outside the “Bitcoin-only” world. He points to groups such as Trail of Bits and Asymmetric Research as examples of high-level security talent that Bitcoin-focused companies should engage through stronger relationships and formal audit processes.540
