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Quantum Computing Approaches #
According to Buterin, elliptic curve cryptography—the mathematical foundation securing blockchains—is under particular pressure. While this method remains secure today, quantum computers could theoretically break it once they become powerful enough. “Elliptic curves will die,” Buterin stated during the event.
Vitalik Buterin warned at the Devconnect conference that elliptic curve cryptography could be broken by quantum computing before the 2028 U.S. presidential election, urging Ethereum to upgrade to quantum-resistant cryptography within four years. He also stated that future…
— Wu Blockchain (@WuBlockchain) November 19, 2025
The threat has risen on the radar due to recent technological breakthroughs from Google, Microsoft, and IBM, bringing quantum computers closer than ever.
Researchers like Scott Aaronson agree that quantum computers pose a real threat and predict they could arrive before the next U.S. presidential election in 2028.
Threat to Crypto #
According to Théau Peronnin, CEO of a quantum computing company working closely with chip manufacturer NVIDIA, quantum computers will be powerful enough to crack Bitcoin’s security by 2030. The underlying cryptography must be updated before then, he says:
"They will have to fork [switch to an updated version of the blockchain] by 2030. Quantum computers will be there shortly after, posing a threat."
Crypto investor and commentator Nic Carter calls the situation urgent:
"When I discover a secret like this, I get the urgent feeling to act immediately with as much intensity as possible."
Not Just a Threat to Crypto #
Quantum computers don’t just threaten Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. The same cryptography is also used to secure various other systems, including banking computers, aviation, and defense systems.
These will all eventually need to transition to newer, stronger forms of encryption. While various forms of encryption claim to be quantum-resistant, it remains to be seen in practice whether they truly are.