It might sound unbelievable, but a secure vault nestled in a secret nuclear bunker in the Swiss Alps safeguards a substantial amount of Bitcoin. Cointelegraph recently toured this highly protected facility to witness firsthand how Xapo Bank employs advanced security measures to protect one of the world’s largest Bitcoin holdings.
Every Bitcoin owner knows the saying, “not your keys, not your coins,” highlighting the importance of secure storage. However, with an estimated 2 million BTC already lost forever, finding a reliable storage solution remains a significant challenge. While some prefer keeping their Bitcoin on exchanges, others opt for cold storage solutions. Xapo Bank stands out by using underground bunkers equipped with state-of-the-art security to protect their clients’ Bitcoin
Xapo Bank’s vault is often referred to as the “Fort Knox” of Bitcoin due to its robust security features. Visitors are met with multiple layers of protection, including biometric scanners, retina scans, and magnetic card access. The facility’s main vault door is a six-ton barrier designed to withstand a nuclear blast, ensuring maximum protection against any physical threats.
Inside the bunker, multiparty computation (MPC) shards play a crucial role in securing Bitcoin transactions. Unlike traditional multisignature methods, MPC technology divides the private key into multiple shards stored in different global locations. This dispersion ensures that no single entity can access the complete key, significantly reducing the risk of theft or loss. Andrew Mannoukas, Xapo’s Chief Information Security Officer, explained that this “defense in depth” strategy combines physical security with cutting-edge technology to safeguard Bitcoin effectively.
The bunker itself is a marvel of modern engineering, featuring nuclear-resistant construction, diesel generators, and an underground lake used for cooling server rooms. These features ensure that the facility remains operational even in extreme conditions, providing continuous protection for the stored Bitcoin.
Xapo Bank’s commitment to security means that clients can trust their Bitcoin is safe without the burden of self-custody. This level of protection is unmatched by most traditional banks, making Xapo a preferred choice for serious Bitcoin investors.
With Bitcoin’s value steadily rising, the importance of secure storage solutions like Xapo Bank’s Swiss bunker cannot be overstated. As the cryptocurrency landscape continues to evolve, such advanced security measures will play a vital role in protecting digital assets worldwide.
Also Read: Bank of Russia to Launch Digital Ruble payment by July 2025