Quantum Safety in QSBitcoin (Quantum-Safe Bitcoin)

The Quantum Threat

The security of many current cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, relies on mathematical problems that are extremely difficult for classical computers to solve. Specifically, the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA) used to sign transactions relies on the difficulty of the Elliptic Curve Discrete Logarithm Problem (ECDLP).

However, theoretical large-scale quantum computers, using algorithms like Shor's algorithm, could potentially solve ECDLP efficiently. This means:

• Private Key Exposure: A quantum computer could potentially derive a user's private key from their public key (which often becomes public when they spend funds). This would allow an attacker to steal funds associated with that key.
• Signature Forgery: An attacker could potentially forge signatures, allowing them to spend funds they don't own.

While such powerful quantum computers don't exist yet, their development is an active area of research. Waiting until they arrive to upgrade cryptographic systems would be too late, as past transaction data could become vulnerable.

QSBitcoin's Solution: Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)

QSBitcoin proactively addresses the quantum threat by implementing Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC). PQC refers to cryptographic algorithms that are believed to be secure against attacks by both classical and quantum computers.

These algorithms are based on different mathematical problems considered hard even for quantum computers, such as:

• Lattice-based Cryptography: Problems related to mathematical structures called lattices.
• Hash-based Cryptography: Relying on the security of cryptographic hash functions.
• Multivariate Cryptography: Based on solving systems of multivariate polynomial equations.
• Code-based Cryptography: Using error-correcting codes.
• Isogeny-based Cryptography: Problems related to mappings between elliptic curves.

QSBitcoin replaces vulnerable algorithms like ECDSA with carefully selected PQC alternatives for critical functions like digital signatures. This ensures that:

• Transactions are signed using quantum-resistant algorithms.
• User funds remain secure even in the era of quantum computing.
• The integrity of the QSBitcoin blockchain is maintained against future threats.

The specific PQC schemes used in QSBitcoin are chosen based on security analysis, performance considerations, and ongoing standardization efforts by organizations like NIST.

Learn more about the specific cryptographic innovations in the Innovation section.

Future-Proofing Digital Assets

By integrating PQC from the ground up, QSBitcoin aims to be a future-proof digital currency. It provides a platform for secure transactions and value storage that anticipates the evolution of computing technology.

Disclaimer: QSBitcoin is a research project exploring these advanced cryptographic techniques. The field of PQC is still evolving, and the implementation details within QSBitcoin may change based on new research findings and security best practices.