Quantum Computing Can Break Zcash and Monero Privacy, Researcher Says
Analysis
Price Impact
HighThe news suggests a significant vulnerability in the privacy features of zcash and monero due to quantum computing. this could erode user confidence and lead to a sell-off if not addressed.
Trustworthiness
MedThe claim comes from a veteran crypto researcher, justin bons. however, other experts and firms like coinshares and bitfinex believe the threat is not immediate or is solvable. this creates a divergence in expert opinion.
Price Direction
BearishThe potential for privacy breaches is a direct negative for privacy coins like zcash and monero, which are valued for their anonymity. this news could lead to a decrease in demand and price.
Time Effect
LongWhile the immediate impact might be debated, the long-term implications of quantum computing on current cryptographic methods are a significant concern that could play out over several years as the technology advances.
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Cover image via U.Today Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by our writers are their own and do not represent the views of U.Today. The financial and market information provided on U.Today is intended for informational purposes only. U.Today is not liable for any financial losses incurred while trading cryptocurrencies. Conduct your own research by contacting financial experts before making any investment decisions. We believe that all content is accurate as of the date of publication, but certain offers mentioned may no longer be available. The concerns about quantum computers have emerged again, with veteran crypto researcher Justin Bons warning that they could crack Zcash (ZEC) and Monero (XMR). In an update shared by Bons on X, the crypto researcher claims that these privacy-focused coins are at risk. Advertisement How quantum computing could deanonymize privacy coins Notably, Bons explained that quantum computers can "deanonymize" and crack the elliptic curve cryptography from exposed public keys. Generally, a public key becomes visible when a user spends funds from their wallet. A quantum computer could solve the complex math behind that key and derive the private key. With this, a malicious actor or unauthorized individual might link the transaction to a real user and compromise the privacy of the transaction. ZEC & XMR privacy is guaranteed to be cracked within the next few years! ⚠️ Quantum computing can de-anonymize it all if the public key is exposed When lives depend on long-term privacy, use a non-ZK-based mixer instead Privacy is a human right; we must acknowledge the risks! — Justin Bons (@Justin_Bons) March 6, 2026 The threat from quantum computers remains of great concern across many blockchains, and Bons suggests using mixing services that do not rely on zero-knowledge proofs. He argues that this is a sure way to protect long-term privacy when "lives depend on it." For clarity, a mixer is designed to pool many users’ coins, redistribute them and make it more difficult to track the ownership of the asset. This helps to protect the identity of the owner. Bons is suggesting that some mixers may resist quantum computer attacks better and should be embraced. This is particularly important for individuals relying on crypto for life-or-death anonymity. You Might Also Like Sat, 03/07/2026 - 06:02 Bitcoin Clings to $70,000: Can Crypto Shake off Employment Upset Before Monday? By Gamza Khanzadaev Experts say quantum threat to crypto is not immediate In February, crypto investment and research firm CoinShares contributed to the potential threats from quantum computers. Their research concluded that the threat is not an imminent one, especially to Bitcoin. According to CoinShares, Bitcoin has the next 20 years to prepare for quantum computing risks, and even then, only about 8% of the total supply is at possible risk. A similar stance was taken by Bitfinex, a leading digital asset trading platform. Bitfinex maintains that quantum threats are solvable and should not bother users much. #Zcash #Monero