Renowned cryptocurrency expert David Chaum has announced what he described as a major advance in protecting Bitcoin from future threats posed by quantum computing, while also praising the United Arab Emirates for emerging as a leading global centre for digital assets and advanced technology.
Chaum, widely regarded as the pioneer of digital cash and often referred to as the “godfather of cryptocurrency,” is in Dubai to participate in the World Government Summit. Speaking to Khaleej Times on the sidelines of the event, the American cryptographer said he had demonstrated for the first time a method to secure Bitcoin against quantum attacks without changing the blockchain itself.
“This can be done without changing the chain, just by changing the software in the wallets people use,” Chaum said. “It’s immediately available, and it really solves a huge problem for Bitcoin and the like.”
Quantum computers, still in early development, are expected to be powerful enough in the future to break cryptographic systems that underpin many digital currencies. Chaum said his solution addresses long-standing concerns within the crypto community by offering protection that can be adopted quickly and without disrupting existing networks.
Chaum also highlighted the UAE’s growing influence in the crypto and technology sectors, crediting a balance of regulation and innovation for its success. “The UAE is establishing itself as the true hub and centre of crypto technologies through a mixture of pretty rigorous regulation and standards, along with diversity across different parts of the country,” he said. “I don’t think I’ve seen a place where there’s so much interest and energy around it.”
He said he has been consistently impressed by the country’s leadership and its approach to innovation. Recalling a previous visit, Chaum said the World Government Summit is helping reshape perceptions of governance by placing science and technology at the heart of policymaking.
This year’s summit, held under the theme “Shaping Future Governments,” brings together global leaders, international organisations, researchers and business executives. Over four days, discussions are focused on how innovation and technology can be used to address shared global challenges.
Looking ahead, Chaum said artificial intelligence is accelerating change at an unprecedented pace and is forcing governments to rethink how they operate. “The big question humanity has to face right now is: how can we get AI to help us govern ourselves, without it running everything for itself?” he said, pointing to the UAE’s rapid adoption of AI across public services.
He added that privacy has become a central issue as AI systems gain access to vast amounts of personal data. “Privacy has gone from being a niche concern to a pivotal issue,” he said.
Chaum described the coming decade as a critical turning point for technology and society. “We’re at a tiny point in human history, a phase change,” he said, adding that choices made now will shape whether the future is open and abundant or increasingly restricted.
