Quote from: lovethepirk on May 05, 2014, 08:52:53 PM

New user of bitcoins as of today. So far I have done this:

I went to blockchain info and got a wallet address, identifier, catchphrase
I went to coinbase and verified my checking account and phone number
I bought a quarter of a bitcoin as a test
Coinbase said it won't be until Friday I have my coin, I'm not thrilled there but I ain't in a hurry.

A few newbie questions....thanks: Huh

1) how does coinbase have my wallet address I never gave it to them? There is a tab on coinbase titled 'wallet', I just don't understand how they have my address when I never gave it to them.
2) On blockchain I have a catchphrase, identifier, and address. Do I need to make damn sure I don't lose any of these, which can you lose and be okay?
3) When I buy something online is my transaction public knowledge? I ask b/c I see transactions being posted all over the place? It appears it is public knowledge but I thought bitcoin was partly for privacy, but I'm a rookie here so please slap me with a fish across my face.

thx

1. Coinbase uses a "Shared wallet" concept. Your BTC will be in your coinbase wallet. You can use that or spend that BTC to your blockchain wallet if you want, or leave it at coinbase.

2. You need your identifier or your alias to be able to log into your wallet. 100% don't lose your password you'll be fine. I highly suggest you set up 2FA at blockchain and coinbase.

3. Yes, in a way. The blockchain is public. But, there is no simple way to link an address back to you. But, it is possible depending on stuff.

(cue all the people telling you how you shouldn't use an online wallet)