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When Quantum Computers Come for Your Bitcoin: What Classical Property Law Says Happens Next

Bitcoin Magazine
This article explores whether using quantum computing to access dormant Bitcoin constitutes theft or legitimate recovery under classical property law.

Summary

The rise of quantum computing poses a threat to legacy Bitcoin addresses, raising questions about whether accessing dormant funds via quantum-derived keys is theft or recovery. While some argue that long-term dormancy implies abandonment, property law maintains that ownership persists regardless of inactivity, death, or accessibility. The article further examines BIP-361, a proposal to freeze quantum-vulnerable UTXOs, noting that while it aims to protect the network, it risks functioning as a form of protocol-level confiscation for owners unable to migrate their assets.

(Source:Bitcoin Magazine)