The rise of quantum computing has sparked intense discussion about its potential impact on blockchain security. Experts suggest that XRP's architecture may be better equipped to handle this threat than Bitcoin's. XRP operates on the XRP Ledger, an open-source, decentralized blockchain, and is used by fintech firm Ripple for cross-border transactions. A key difference lies in the exposure of public keys, which can be reverse-engineered by a powerful enough quantum computer using Shor's algorithm, potentially draining funds.
However, XRP Ledger's design and features such as key rotation and escrow with time locks may offer additional protection. A recent audit found that around 300,000 XRP accounts, holding 2.4 billion XRP, have never sent funds and thus remain quantum-safe.
In contrast, Bitcoin's vulnerability appears more significant, with an estimated 6.9 million BTC at risk, equivalent to nearly 35% of its circulating supply. Bitcoin's lack of a key rotation feature and the exposure of public keys during fund transfers further exacerbate this risk.
While both cryptocurrencies face theoretical risks, XRP's unique features may provide a degree of protection against quantum attacks.