If a quantum computer ever cracks a blockchain, it could mean the end of the crypto industry as we know it. Blockchains are supposed to be secure and tamper-proof. If that promise is broken, trust in the entire system could collapse overnight.

There’s also another major threat: artificial intelligence (AI). If an advanced AI system figures out how to manipulate blockchain systems—even just in a research setting—it could trigger massive panic and sell-offs across crypto markets. Every crash we’ve seen before would look small in comparison.

The scary part? These risks are real and growing fast, but the crypto industry is not moving quickly enough to prepare. Some blockchain platforms are taking steps, but not nearly enough. Most are focused on rapid growth instead of building future-proof security.

AI is already being used by hackers to launch smarter attacks—like advanced phishing, malware, and zero-day exploits. A study from Cornell University shows how AI agents interacting with blockchains can be tricked into making unauthorized transactions if attackers mess with their memory or context. This means an AI-controlled wallet or smart contract could be hacked without anyone noticing until it’s too late.

Quantum computing poses an even bigger long-term threat. While it may still be about 10 years away from breaking current encryption, when it does, it could compromise up to 25% of all Bitcoin stored in old wallets with exposed public keys. That’s a massive amount of value at risk.

The cryptographic systems that protect blockchain today—like ECDSA—are vulnerable to quantum algorithms that already exist. Government agencies like NIST and ENISA are working on post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards to fix this. But many crypto platforms are not following their advice or updating their systems accordingly.

Some blockchains like Sui, Ethereum, and Algorand are testing quantum-safe algorithms. Sui has even figured out how to protect older accounts with backward compatibility. But these efforts are still rare. Most major networks haven’t upgraded their encryption to handle quantum threats.

The problem is clear: the crypto world is not preparing fast enough for AI and quantum risks. There’s little collaboration between blockchain developers and experts in AI or quantum computing. Without strong partnerships and shared solutions, the systems we rely on could become easy targets.

To truly secure the future, crypto must start working closely with AI and quantum researchers. Blockchains could help AI by providing tamper-proof logs, transparent decision-making records, and secure data storage. In turn, quantum technology could strengthen blockchain security if built into the foundation from day one.

There’s also a need for better communication with regulators like NIST and ENISA. Working together on new security standards will help ensure they’re implemented correctly and protect users effectively.

If the crypto industry wants to survive—and thrive—it must act now. That means auditing current cryptographic systems, planning for post-quantum upgrades, and building strong partnerships across industries. Waiting too long is risky because breakthroughs in AI or quantum computing could happen faster than expected.

By being proactive, crypto can build systems that are safe from tomorrow’s threats and unlock new ways to improve society. But if the industry continues to ignore these risks, it could lose everything it has built so far.