As quantum computing advances, researchers are increasingly focused on “quantum-proofing” Bitcoin against potential future attacks.

BitMEX Research has outlined several technical escape routes aimed at protecting users if the network is forced to implement a so-called “quantum freeze.”

In this scenario, developers could deploy a soft fork to lock coins held in vulnerable legacy addresses such as P2PKH or P2PK, preventing attackers with quantum capabilities from stealing them.

However, such a freeze presents a critical dilemma: if malicious actors cannot access the coins, legitimate owners would also be unable to spend them, effectively rendering the funds inaccessible.

To solve this, BitMEX proposes “quantum-safe recovery transactions” that would allow rightful owners to reclaim frozen assets.

One suggested approach for standard wallets involves a two-step process:

first, the user broadcasts a transaction containing a cryptographic hash commitment of their private key or seed phrase

After a waiting period, such as 100 blocks, they submit a second transaction revealing the key or seed, thereby unlocking the funds.

A more advanced alternative leverages Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs), enabling users to cryptographically prove ownership of their seed phrase without disclosing it.

This method preserves privacy while maintaining security, as sensitive key material remains hidden.

The urgency of these proposals is underscored by the exposure of legacy Bitcoin addresses, particularly P2PK addresses, which account for roughly 8.6% of the total supply, including coins mined by Satoshi Nakamoto in 2009.

Protecting these holdings is considered especially significant.

As a forward-looking safeguard, BitMEX has also introduced the concept of a “Pre-QDay Commitment,” allowing users to publish a hash of their private keys before quantum computers become a practical threat, thereby reinforcing defenses against future quantum-based attacks.