Researchers at AmericanFortress have developed a new signature protocol designed to defend blockchain networks against future quantum computer attacks. The company’s patent-pending solution stands out because it can secure existing wallets without requiring users to move funds to entirely new addresses. Older Bitcoin wallets, especially those dating back to the Satoshi era, are considered particularly vulnerable due to their outdated security structures and lack of upgrade support.
AmericanFortress CEO Michal Pospieszalski stated that legacy Bitcoin addresses cannot automatically transition to newer wallet standards, making them potential targets for future quantum-based exploits. According to the proposal, the protection system could be implemented through a Bitcoin soft fork, allowing vulnerable funds to be temporarily frozen and managed through community consensus if quantum threats become real.
The company also claims its zero-knowledge proof (ZK-proof) based solution operates without slowing down network performance, unlike some alternative approaches tested on other blockchains. AmericanFortress says active users can transition to quantum-resistant protection in roughly 50 milliseconds with relatively low costs. Research cited by the company suggests that nearly $600 billion worth of crypto assets are currently exposed to quantum-related risks, with all addresses on the Solana network reportedly falling into the vulnerable category. Technical details for the Bitcoin implementation are expected to be presented publicly in Paris this June.
