Researchers Cut Quantum Resource Benchmark for Bitcoin and Ethereum Attack by Over Half

Researchers have announced a significant reduction in the estimated quantum computing power required to execute a critical attack on Bitcoin and Ethereum. The new benchmark is reported to be less than half of the level previously cited by Google, though the two studies employ different accounting approaches.

Key Findings

• The quantum resource benchmark for the attack has been halved compared to earlier estimates.
• Google’s prior estimate remains higher, but uses a different methodology for measuring quantum resources.

Implications for Bitcoin and Ethereum

The findings suggest that the theoretical threat posed by quantum computers to the cryptographic foundations of Bitcoin and Ethereum may be more imminent than previously thought, prompting renewed discussion on post‑quantum security measures.

Methodological Differences

While both studies assess the same attack vector, they differ in how they account for quantum operations, leading to divergent benchmark figures.