Brute-forcing a #Bitcoin private key is virtually impossible due to the 256-bit encryption, with around 10^77 possible combinations. Even with unimaginable computational power, it would take longer than the age of the universe to crack.
Discussion
It’s the exactly the same probability of finding a particle of sand on planet Earth.
Considering a 24 word seed phrase right? At 12 words it's 128-bit and 10*39 combinations. As I understand it's also virtually impossible to crack...
This is why I use PGP keys for email and OMEMO for chat.. Freaking bullet proof
Lets hope the hardware wallet pin isn't on a sticky note, taped to the laptop 😂
Then why is nostr:npub17u5dneh8qjp43ecfxr6u5e9sjamsmxyuekrg2nlxrrk6nj9rsyrqywt4tp talking about quantum computers being the next big threat to #bitcoin that needs serious thought now and not in 5-10 years?
https://optoutpod.com/episodes/bitcoin-and-ossification-jameson-lopp/
If it would be possible at some point, Bitcoin can be secured by upgrading the hashing algorithm.
That's the nuclear option and would take us back to GPU Goblin Town leaving us open to hostile actors owning the majority of the hashrate.
You can't just order the amount of ASICs required for securing the network on a new algorithm. Hardware takes years to build out. It would essentially be bricking every current ASIC rig on the planet.
Not saying quantum isn't a threat to Bitcoin, but if brute forcing a private key were to become possible, wouldn't we have much bigger problems on our hands? Like SSL no longer securing websites, VPN traffic being intercepted, etc.
More like finding a specific atom in the entire known universe.
Watch out for quantum computing. It’s coming. Get ready for it now. When it gets here, it’s too late.