Tech giant Google has recently released an important update regarding advances in quantum computing that could threaten the cryptographic systems currently used in the crypto industry. In its official report, Google emphasized that the threat to modern encryption is getting closer and requires an immediate response from the industry.

Quantum Threat Becoming More Real

In its latest publication, Google stated that future quantum computers will pose a serious threat to encryption systems, including those used in blockchain and crypto assets. The company has even updated its threat model and is urging an accelerated transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC).

Several reports also estimate that the “Q-Day”, the moment when quantum computers can break modern encryption, could arrive sooner than expected, potentially even before 2030.

Private Keys Could Be Broken in Minutes

One of the most significant findings is the dramatic increase in attack efficiency. Google’s research shows that quantum computers could potentially break crypto private keys in as little as 9 minutes under certain scenarios.

This figure is critical when compared to the average block confirmation time of Bitcoin, which is around 10 minutes. This creates the possibility of an “on-spend attack,” where an attacker could extract a private key from a public key exposed during a transaction and redirect funds before the transaction is confirmed.

Much Lower Qubit Requirements

Google also revealed that the resources required to carry out quantum attacks are now significantly lower than previously estimated.

The research indicates that only around 1,200–1,450 logical qubits are needed to execute certain attack methods, far more efficient compared to earlier projections that required tens of thousands of qubits.

This reduction narrows the gap between current technological capabilities and real-world attack potential.

Millions of Bitcoin Potentially at Risk

The research also highlights the scale of potential impact on the crypto ecosystem. It is estimated that millions of Bitcoinare in vulnerable conditions, especially those stored in addresses whose public keys have already been exposed.

Some of these even date back to the early days of Bitcoin, including holdings associated with Satoshi Nakamoto, which are considered to carry higher risk if quantum attacks become a reality.

Push Toward Post-Quantum Migration

In response, Google stressed the importance of transitioning to cryptographic systems that are resistant to quantum attacks.

Post-quantum cryptography is designed to remain secure even against quantum computers, unlike current algorithms such as RSA or elliptic curve cryptography, which could potentially be broken.

Google has already begun implementing this technology across various products, including integrating PQC into its security systems and digital services.

Conclusion

Google’s latest release marks a significant shift in the digital security landscape, particularly for the crypto industry.

With shorter estimated attack times and lower technological requirements, the quantum threat is no longer just a long-term concern.

For industry players and crypto users, this development serves as a strong signal to begin considering a transition toward security systems that are more adaptive to the rapidly approaching quantum era.