Project Eleven CEO claims quantum labs are withholding results

Alex Pruden, CEO of post-quantum security firm Project Eleven, has stated that quantum computing laboratories are withholding certain research results to prevent public alarm. Pruden claimed that labs have either been directed not to publish specific findings or have chosen to keep them private to avoid causing panic.

While Pruden did not name specific laboratories or detail the nature of the withheld findings, his comments touch on the potential risks quantum computing poses to digital asset security. A sufficiently powerful quantum computer could theoretically compromise the digital signature systems used by many blockchain networks to authorize transactions.

These remarks follow previous industry warnings, such as those from Ethereum Foundation researcher Justin Drake, regarding the need for blockchain networks to prepare for potential quantum threats. Additionally, Google previously disclosed that it limited technical details in a March report regarding the resources required to break 256-bit elliptic curve cryptography, citing engagement with the U.S. government and the need to avoid providing a roadmap to malicious actors.