New PACTs method helps Bitcoin holders protect assets from quantum computing threats without on-chain moves.

Paradigm researcher Dan Robinson proposed Provable Address-Control Timestamps (PACTs), a new way for Bitcoin holders to timestamp proof of private key ownership off-chain. This method uses cryptographic commitments and OpenTimestamps to securely prove key control without exposing identities or moving funds on-chain, addressing risks from future quantum computers that could steal coins from exposed addresses. PACTs offer a privacy-preserving way to reclaim funds if Bitcoin adopts a quantum sunset protocol requiring zero-knowledge proofs for spending vulnerable coins. However, multisig wallets and custodial setups still need standardization, and adoption of this rescue mechanism by Bitcoin is not guaranteed, so holders should still consider migrating to quantum-safe addresses in the future.