Binance founder Changpeng Zhao has called for freezing an estimated 1.1 million Bitcoin linked to Satoshi Nakamoto if quantum computers threaten the network's security. The suggestion has divided industry figures over Bitcoin's core principles.
Zhao made the remarks last month during a podcast with Galaxy Digital's Alex Thorn. He proposed giving Satoshi six to 12 months to move the coins, currently valued at around $68 billion. If no action occurred, the community could decide on freezing the addresses.
"If we don't do anything with it, then we're basically giving it to somebody who's going to hack it," Zhao said.
Investor Michael Terpin warned the idea crosses a line by introducing permission into a permissionless system. Developer Jameson Lopp argued the focus should instead be on phased upgrades via Bitcoin Improvement Proposal 361 to address quantum risks more broadly.
Bitwise chief investment officer Matt Hougan endorsed an alternative from Nic Carter that would place the coins in a legal trust. The debate remains theoretical as researchers continue work on post-quantum cryptography.
