Taproot addresses at risk: short key format sparks debate

The Taproot update, activated in 2021, has come under scrutiny. The cause is the simplified storage of the public key’s x-coordinate on-chain, potentially easing the way for future quantum computing attacks. Experts warn that “long-range” breaches could become possible if quantum machines learn to reconstruct full public keys and access private data.

Taproot advocates note that it enhanced Bitcoin’s privacy and flexibility by combining scripts and reducing fees. However, new arguments about quantum threats prompt parts of the community to consider a fork or a gradual migration of funds to alternative address types.

No urgent fixes have been announced yet: core developers are examining how to merge Taproot’s advantages with post-quantum security measures. Some optimism remains, as real-world quantum attacks are still hypothetical, giving Bitcoin time to adjust its architecture.