Can AI Break Cryptography? What the Experts Actually Think
Can AI Break Cryptography? What the Experts Actually Think  
Podcast: The a16z Show
Published On: Tue Oct 13 2026
Description: Could AI break the cryptography protecting everything from crypto wallets and banking to private messages? Recent advances in AI-driven mathematical research have sparked new warnings about the security of today's encryption systems, but how much of the concern is supported by evidence?a16z crypto's Liz Harkavy is joined by Stanford cryptographer Dan Boneh, a16z crypto General Partner Eddy Lazzarin, and Research Partner Justin Thaler to separate what we know from what remains speculation. They explain why modern cryptography relies on mathematical assumptions, what OpenAI's recent results do and don't demonstrate, and how the potential threat from AI differs from quantum computing.They also discuss why existing security practices and cryptographic alternatives offer reasons for confidence, the importance of building systems that can adapt if an assumption fails, and how AI could ultimately help researchers and developers make software more secure.Resources:Watch the original a16z crypto discussion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_CoOoDsZ5YFollow Eddy Lazzarin on X: https://x.com/eddylazzarinFollow Dan Boneh: https://x.com/danbonehFollow Justin Thaler: https://x.com/SuccinctJTFollow Liz Harkavy: https://x.com/liz_harkavyLearn more about a16z crypto: https://a16zcrypto.com/  Stay Updated:Find a16z on YouTube: YouTubeFind a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Show on SpotifyListen to the a16z Show on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.