Can Bitcoin Go Extinct? Here’s the Analysis and Factors That Could Cause It

The question of whether Bitcoin (BTC) could eventually disappear from the global financial system has resurfaced amid the ongoing volatility in the digital asset market. Although often referred to as “digital gold” and the foundational pillar of the modern crypto ecosystem, several analysts believe that there are extreme theoretical scenarios that could potentially threaten the survival of the world’s first digital asset.

According to a Cointelegraph report (September 2025), there are three major potential threats to Bitcoin’s existence: a collapse of network infrastructure, a quantum computer attack, and a globally coordinated ban. However, experts argue that it would be highly unlikely for these scenarios to occur simultaneously — especially given Bitcoin’s robust decentralized structure, distributed across thousands of nodes worldwide.

1. Quantum Attacks and Post-Quantum Technology

One of the most frequently discussed threats is the possibility of a quantum computer attack, which could theoretically break Bitcoin’s SHA-256 encryption system — the core layer of its security.
According to a Decrypt report (early 2025), this threat is real but is already being mitigated through the development of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) — a next-generation encryption framework designed to protect blockchain systems from future quantum-based attacks.

“PQC technology is now being tested by several major developers, including the Ethereum Foundation and Cardano. If the quantum threat escalates, it’s highly likely that Bitcoin will adopt similar security upgrades,” the report stated.

2. Mining Ecosystem Collapse and Energy Dependence

Another potential risk lies in the collapse of the mining ecosystem. If Bitcoin’s price were to drop to a point where mining becomes unprofitable, miners could shut down their operations, which would in turn reduce network security and slow transaction validation. However, such a scenario is currently considered highly improbable. With Bitcoin prices holding above US$120,000, analysts argue that the mining incentive system remains fundamentally sound.

In an interview with Bloomberg Crypto (August 2025), market analyst Michael van de Poppe stated:

“Bitcoin has reached a balance point between mining incentives and institutional adoption. As long as the Proof-of-Work mechanism continues to function properly, the possibility of Bitcoin truly disappearing is virtually impossible from a technical standpoint.”

3. Global Regulatory Pressure and Financial Isolation

The third potential threat to Bitcoin’s longevity would be a globally coordinated ban on cryptocurrencies. Yet experts believe that such coordination is extremely difficult to achieve, given the diverse regulatory approaches among nations.

For example, the United States is actually expanding its regulatory framework for crypto investment products such as Bitcoin-based ETFs. Meanwhile, the European Union is strengthening its implementation of the MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) to provide legal clarity for digital assets. These developments indicate that the global policy direction is leaning toward accommodation rather than prohibition of blockchain technology.

Bitcoin Is Unlikely to Disappear  But Remains Vulnerable

In theory, Bitcoin could become extinct if all three of these extreme factors occurred simultaneously. In practice, however, analysts believe such a scenario is nearly impossible in the foreseeable future. Bitcoin’s decentralized structure, global community support, and established economic value make it resemble a “living digital organism” — capable of adapting to evolving technological and regulatory challenges.