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Quantum Security Plan
Circle released a post-quantum security roadmap for Arc.
“Quantum resilience cannot live only in research papers, exploratory pilots, or distant roadmap slides. It has to show up in the infrastructure”
The rollout will begin with quantum-proof wallets and signatures at mainnet launch.
Circle emphasized that quantum resilience has to show up in the infrastructure.
Google warned quantum computers could break Bitcoin cryptography in nine minutes.
Active addresses must migrate before Q-Day because their public keys have been exposed.
Phased Implementation
Circle plans a multi-phase approach starting with quantum-resistant wallets.
A privacy layer will shield balances and transactions after mainnet launch.
Quantum solutions will extend to validators and off-chain infrastructure.
The phased strategy allows users to migrate at their own pace.
Circle characterized the campaign as a preemptive measure.
Industry Context
Google and Caltech researchers warned powerful quantum computers may arrive sooner than expected.
“Bitcoin lacks quantum-resistance roadmap, leaving older wallets exposed”
Algorand was identified as the most quantum-ready blockchain.
Ethereum and Solana are actively developing solutions.
Bitcoin lacks a quantum-resistance roadmap.
Circle is the first major stablecoin to address quantum threats.
Warnings and Risks
Circle warned about harvest now, decrypt later attacks.
Wallets with previously exposed public keys face particular risk.
Inaction is risky and this conversation cannot wait.
Functional quantum computers may require less computing power than earlier estimates.