Bitcoin developers have unveiled their first formal plan to protect the cryptocurrency from future quantum computer attacks.
On February 11, BIP 360, called “Pay to Merkle Root,” was published. It introduces a new type of Bitcoin address that keeps public keys hidden until a transaction is spent, reducing the risk of quantum hacking.
Quantum computers could, in theory, reverse-engineer private keys from exposed public keys, putting coins at risk. Experts say over $415 billion worth of Bitcoin could be vulnerable if no action is taken.
The proposal doesn’t make immediate changes. It’s the first step in a roadmap toward quantum security. Full protection will also require post-quantum signature algorithms in the future.
Current Taproot addresses will continue to work, while the new format allows users to migrate gradually. Most modern wallets are already using safer addresses, so retail holders face less immediate risk.
Experts warn that a powerful quantum computer could arrive in the next five to seven years, making early preparation essential.
Because Bitcoin is decentralized, updates require consensus from developers, miners, exchanges, and wallet providers, making the process slow but deliberate.
BIP 360 shows the Bitcoin network is taking quantum threats seriously, marking a major step toward long-term security.
