Crypto 'Godfather' David Chaum Unveils Breakthrough To Protect Bitcoin In UAE

2026-02-02 02:29:24

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Renowned cryptocurrency expert David Chaum has revealed a breakthrough that could secure Bitcoin against future quantum computer attacks, and praised the UAE's growing role as a global hub for cryptocurrency and advanced technologies.

The American - who is often called the 'godfather' of cryptocurrency and is widely credited as the first developer of digital cash - is in Dubai to participate in the World Government Summit (WGS).

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Speaking to Khaleej Times on the sidelines of the summit, Chaum said he had demonstrated“for the first time” a way to make Bitcoin resistant to quantum computing threats without altering the blockchain itself.“This can be done without changing the chain, just by changing the software in the wallets people use,” he said.“It's immediately available, and it really solves a huge problem for Bitcoin and the like.”

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The septuagenarian further said that the UAE has positioned itself at the forefront of crypto innovation. “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 added that he has long been impressed by the country's leadership.“I was here at a previous World Government Summit, and I was extremely impressed by the leadership of this country. I tell it to everyone I meet,” he said, adding that the summit is helping change how people view governments globally by giving science and innovation a central role.

This year, the summit will convene under the theme 'Shaping Future Governments', and bring together governments, international organizations, thought leaders, and private sector leaders from around the globe. Over four days, it will focus on harnessing innovation and technology to solve humanity's universal challenges.

Future

Chaum said the world is entering a period of rapid transformation driven by artificial intelligence, raising fundamental questions about governance.“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, noting the UAE's fast integration of AI into government systems.

With AI's growing reach, Chaum said privacy has become a critical issue for individuals and enterprises alike.“When you start interacting with AI, you realise it knows more about you than you know about yourself,” he said.“Privacy has gone from being a niche concern to a pivotal issue.”

Looking ahead, Chaum described the next decade as a decisive moment for crypto, AI, and society.“We're at a tiny point in human history- a phase change,” he said.“We could move towards a frozen world, or a more open, abundant one. I'm doing everything I can to help us choose the better path.”