Researcher Warns Quantum Computers Could Break Zcash and Monero Privacy
Justin Bons posted on X that advances in quantum computing could threaten the privacy guarantees of Zcash (ZEC) and Monero (XMR), arguing that quantum algorithms might undermine the cryptographic primitives those coins rely on. The claim centers on the risk that a sufficiently powerful, fault-tolerant quantum computer could execute algorithms like Shor’s to compromise elliptic-curve-based proofs and other underlying mathematics used in zero-knowledge proofs and ring-signature constructions.
If true, the consequence would be significant: past transactions could be linkable and previously private balances exposed, raising legal and security risks for users and custodians. Experts stress the timeline is uncertain and large-scale quantum machines are not yet available, but Bons’ warning underscores the need for accelerated research into quantum-resistant cryptography and clear upgrade paths for privacy-focused protocols and infrastructure.