Hey guys, I understand that Bitcoin is decentralized and doesn’t require ID or permission to use. That part is clear to me and I’m not questioning that. But what I’m still trying to figure out is how to actually get Bitcoin and stay anonymous if at some point you most likely will use fiat to get it.
Let’s say you try to go through a p2p method online, that still involves paying someone and that payment usually has to come from your fiat money. So how do you do that without creating a link to your real identity? That’s the part I find confusing. It’s not about Bitcoin itself, it’s about the process of converting the fiat to Bitcoin in a way that doesn’t leave a trace.
I’m also curious how people used to do it in the earlier days, like in 2014 or 2015. I guess it was easier back then but I don’t know what the usual methods were. Were they just doing regular bank transfers or was there something else people used to stay private?
If someone with real knowledge/experience can explain how this is done in practice I will be grateful for and than you.
Bitcoin is a decentralized asset and boasts excellent security. But when it comes to anonymity, I don't think we can be completely anonymous when buying Bitcoin. As you said, when we buy Bitcoin, the bank account we use to top up to an exchange or conduct P2P transactions will certainly reveal our real name or identity. So, with this in mind, truly remaining anonymous will be very difficult.
But I don't think that's a problem. The most important thing when buying Bitcoin is to find a truly reputable exchange, like Binance. With this, we can at least feel safer. Furthermore, if you want a little more anonymity, it's better not to buy Bitcoin using P2P methods, but rather to buy it directly from the Bitcoin market. Buying directly from an exchange is likely to be more anonymous. We don't know who we're buying Bitcoin from, and neither does the person selling it, who will likely have the same thoughts.
Then, speaking of people from 2014-2015 and earlier, as far as I know, they also bought Bitcoin on exchanges. Because exchanges already existed at that time. But perhaps before exchanges existed, I've read that people bought Bitcoin directly or through forums (like this forum).
So, the point is, even before, if we truly wanted 100% anonymity when buying Bitcoin, it was very difficult. But you don't need to worry, because even though it is difficult to be completely anonymous when buying bitcoin, I am sure our bitcoin will remain safe, as long as we can take good care of it.