Vitalik Buterin Warns AI Could Weaken Cryptography Within Two Years

Vitalik Buterin warns that AI advances could weaken cryptography used in blockchain systems

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has warned that advances in artificial intelligence could accelerate mathematical breakthroughs enough to weaken some cryptographic systems within two years, potentially creating risks for widely used blockchain security mechanisms.

AI Risk to Cryptographic Systems

According to Wu Blockchain, Buterin said AI-driven advances in mathematics could weaken lattice-based cryptography, including ML-DSA and fully homomorphic encryption (FHE), within the next two years. He also warned that ECDSA could face risks sooner than previously expected.

The warning points to the possibility that faster progress in mathematical research could affect cryptographic technologies used to protect digital assets and transactions. Buterin's comments specifically identify lattice-based systems, ML-DSA and FHE as areas of concern, while also highlighting ECDSA as a potential risk.

Ethereum's Shift Toward Hash-Based Signatures

Buterin said Ethereum's Lean roadmap is moving toward hash-based signatures as part of an effort to reduce the risks associated with future advances in cryptography. The shift reflects a focus on cryptographic approaches that could provide an alternative as concerns over existing methods increase.

He also advised users to favor cryptocurrency addresses that have never sent transactions. Buterin recommended using off-chain multisig signing where practical, offering users another measure to reduce exposure to the risks he described.

Buterin Cautions Against Rushed Migrations

Despite the warning, Buterin cautioned against rushing asset migrations. His comments therefore combine preparation for potential cryptographic risks with a warning against making rapid changes before they are necessary.

The two-year timeframe cited by Buterin applies to the potential weakening of lattice-based cryptography, including ML-DSA and FHE, while ECDSA could face risks sooner than expected. His recommendations include unused addresses, off-chain multisig signing and Ethereum's move toward hash-based signatures.

Writer: Victoria Hale
Technology & Blockchain Writer

Victoria Hale writes about blockchain technology, digital infrastructure, and the intersection of emerging technologies with finance. Her articles explore how new protocols and systems are shaping the evolving digital economy.

She prioritises clarity and accuracy when explaining technical developments to a general audience.