Zhao Proposes Freezing Satoshi's Bitcoin to Counter Quantum Computing Threat

Binance founder Changpeng Zhao has sparked a heated debate in the cryptocurrency community by proposing that Satoshi Nakamoto's one million Bitcoin, believed to be controlled by the pseudonymous creator of Bitcoin, should be frozen or removed from circulation after a quantum-resistant network upgrade.

Zhao emphasized that while quantum computing does not pose an existential threat to Bitcoin itself, proactive measures are necessary to prevent an unfair seizure of dormant coins. He noted that quantum computers will likely take at least 10-15 years to break existing encryption standards, but planning should begin now.

The proposal involves a six-to-twelve month grace period for the owner or anyone with legitimate access to move Satoshi's Bitcoin to a new secure address. If the funds remain untouched after that window, Zhao suggested that the community agree to freeze or remove them through a protocol change.