Bitcoin devs bet a quantum attacker will play nice with a ‘wait and react’ plan
CoinDesk·2h ago·Fear
What Happened
Bitcoin developers debate a 'wait and react' quantum computing defense strategy. BitMEX Research proposes a 'canary' system placing small bitcoin amounts in addresses only quantum-capable attackers could access. Triggering this would automatically freeze older wallets. This alternative to BIP-361's fixed five-year timeline includes financial incentives rewarding attackers who publicly demonstrate capability rather than stealing silently.
Key Entities
Bitcoin developersBitMEX Researchquantum computingBIP-361GoogleEthereum DAO hack