Google-linked paper warns quantum computers could crack secp256k1 as Ethereum plans post-quantum shift

A research paper involving Google warns that sufficiently advanced quantum computers could eventually break elliptic-curve cryptography used by major blockchains, adding pressure to Ethereum's post-quantum transition plans. The authors estimate 1,200–1,450 logical qubits could crack secp256k1 within minutes, with an “on-spend” attack window potentially as short as 9–12 minutes. Ethereum’s roadmap is expected to take years as larger signatures and higher compute requirements complicate upgrades and user migrations.