More than one-third of Bitcoin's total supply, representing over $500 billion in value, is potentially exposed to future quantum computing threats, according to data from Glassnode cited by Coin Bureau. The figures show that 7.12 million BTC, equivalent to 35.4% of Bitcoin's supply, are held in addresses with public keys already visible on the blockchain.
The data highlights a potential security concern for Bitcoin as quantum computing technology advances. While current computers cannot use this exposure to compromise Bitcoin's cryptographic security, sufficiently powerful future quantum computers could potentially pose a threat to certain types of exposed wallet addresses.
Why 35.4% of Bitcoin Supply Is Considered Exposed
According to Glassnode, the exposure is linked to how Bitcoin addresses reveal their public keys during transactions. Most Bitcoin addresses do not publicly disclose their associated public keys until the first transaction is made from them.
Once a transaction is sent from an address, its public key becomes visible on the Bitcoin blockchain. Any remaining BTC in that address, as well as additional coins subsequently sent to the same address, are considered exposed under Glassnode's assessment.
This distinction is important because Bitcoin's security relies on cryptographic mechanisms that protect ownership and authorize transactions. Public-key exposure creates a potential vulnerability if future quantum computers become capable of breaking the cryptographic assumptions underlying those security mechanisms.
Moving Bitcoin to a Fresh Address Can End the Exposure
Glassnode also outlined a straightforward way to address this particular exposure: transferring the affected coins to a new Bitcoin address.
In its statement, the analytics firm said, "Moving those coins to a fresh address ends this exposure."
The recommendation is based on the difference between addresses whose public keys have already been revealed and fresh addresses that have not yet been used to send transactions. Moving funds to an unused address prevents the new address's public key from being exposed through an outgoing transaction.
However, this approach addresses the specific public-key exposure identified in the analysis. It does not eliminate every potential quantum computing risk associated with Bitcoin or guarantee protection against future developments in cryptographic technology.
Quantum Computing Raises Long-Term Questions for Bitcoin Security
The scale of the reported exposure is significant. Glassnode's figures identify 7.12 million BTC, representing 35.4% of the cryptocurrency's supply, as residing in addresses with publicly visible public keys. Coin Bureau reported that the associated value exceeds $500 billion.
The findings bring attention to the distinction between Bitcoin's current security and its potential vulnerabilities against future technological capabilities. Quantum computers with sufficient computational power could eventually threaten cryptographic systems that are considered secure against conventional computers.
For Bitcoin holders, the immediate markets takeaway from Glassnode's analysis is the importance of understanding address reuse and public-key visibility. The analytics firm's recommendation is to move affected coins into fresh addresses to end the specific exposure associated with previously revealed public keys.
According to the data shared by Coin Bureau, the amount potentially affected stands at 7.12 million BTC, or 35.4% of Bitcoin's supply, with a reported value of more than $500 billion.
Writer: Victoria Hale Technology & Blockchain Writer
Victoria Hale writes about blockchain technology, digital infrastructure, and the intersection of emerging technologies with finance. Her articles explore how new protocols and systems are shaping the evolving digital economy.
She prioritises clarity and accuracy when explaining technical developments to a general audience.
Check out other news and articles on Google News
Disclaimer:
The articles on Hokanews are here to keep you updated on the latest buzz in crypto, tech, and beyond—but they’re not financial advice. We’re sharing info, trends, and insights, not telling you to buy, sell, or invest. Always do your own homework before making any money moves.
Hokanews isn’t responsible for any losses, gains, or chaos that might happen if you act on what you read here. Investment decisions should come from your own research—and, ideally, guidance from a qualified financial advisor. Remember: crypto and tech move fast, info changes in a blink, and while we aim for accuracy, we can’t promise it’s 100% complete or up-to-date.
The articles on Hokanews are here to keep you updated on the latest buzz in crypto, tech, and beyond—but they’re not financial advice. We’re sharing info, trends, and insights, not telling you to buy, sell, or invest. Always do your own homework before making any money moves.
Hokanews isn’t responsible for any losses, gains, or chaos that might happen if you act on what you read here. Investment decisions should come from your own research—and, ideally, guidance from a qualified financial advisor. Remember: crypto and tech move fast, info changes in a blink, and while we aim for accuracy, we can’t promise it’s 100% complete or up-to-date.
