Quantum Computers Could Break Bitcoin's Encryption by 2030s

Researchers from Google Quantum AI have determined that a quantum computer could break Bitcoin’s cryptographic encryption in approximately nine minutes using fewer than 500,000 qubits. The study suggests this capability may become feasible by the 2030s, though no exact timeline or specific quantum hardware was detailed. The focus is on the efficiency of quantum attacks against Bitcoin’s underlying cryptographic mechanisms, particularly its reliance on elliptic curve cryptography. No CVE IDs or specific vulnerabilities were mentioned, nor were alternative cryptographic solutions proposed. The impact centers on the potential future compromise of Bitcoin’s security if quantum computing advances as projected.