G7 Warns of Quantum Threat to Bitcoin Holdings

The G7 Cybersecurity Working Group is warning users to prepare for post-quantum cryptography to protect sensitive data, including Bitcoin holdings. The group's focus on quantum-safe methods stems from the vulnerability of some Bitcoin addresses that have revealed their public keys.

According to the working group, Bitcoin addresses that have been used or were created in older formats are susceptible to future quantum attacks. In contrast, unused addresses remain safe and can be considered secure.

Users can check their addresses on block explorers and should move funds from exposed addresses to new ones to minimize risk. Regulatory deadlines for adopting quantum-safe methods are set between 2026 and 2035, with ongoing efforts through Bitcoin improvement proposals to address the issue.