Breakthrough in Quantum Attack: Researcher Claims 1 Bitcoin Bounty

The threat of quantum attacks on cryptocurrency has become more tangible, as a researcher has successfully broken a 15-bit elliptic curve key, a crucial component of cryptographic security. This achievement has earned Giancarlo Lelli a 1 bitcoin bounty, worth approximately $78,000, from quantum security startup Project Eleven. Although this breakthrough does not immediately jeopardize the security of bitcoin, which relies on 256-bit elliptic curve cryptography, it marks a significant step forward in the development of quantum attacks. The previous record, set in September 2025, was a 6-bit demonstration, and Lelli's achievement represents a 512-fold increase in just seven months. The implications of this breakthrough are far-reaching, with potential consequences for the security of various cryptocurrencies, including bitcoin and ether. As the technology continues to advance, the barrier to launching such attacks is decreasing, and the community is taking notice. With an estimated 6.9 million bitcoin vulnerable to quantum attacks, developers are exploring migration paths, including the proposed BIP-360, to ensure the long-term security of the network.