Why use privacy cryptocurrencies?
Bitcoin and most cryptocurrencies arepseudonymous, not anonymous. All transactions are public visible on the blockchain and can be associated with your identity. They use privacy coins like Monero cryptographic techniques to hide the sender, receiver and transaction amount.
Privacy Coins
Monero (XMR)
RecommendedThe most popular privacy coin. It uses Ring Signatures, Stealth Addresses and RingCT for complete anonymity of transactions.
Zcash (ZEC)
Optional privacyUses zk-SNARKs for zero-knowledge proofs. Privacy is optional (shielded vs transparent transactions).
Dash
CoinJoinUses PrivateSend (CoinJoin) to mix transactions. Fast transactions with InstantSend.
Software wallets
Cake Wallet
Open Source Multi-coinPopular open-source wallet for Monero, Bitcoin, Litecoin and more. Integrated exchanges and ease of use.
Monerua
Open Source XMR OnlyA lightweight Android wallet for Monero only. Connecting to your own node, Tor support, minimalist interface.
Hardware wallets
Safe
Open Source RecommendedCzech company, fully open-source firmware. Secure offline storage for your cryptocurrencies. Monero support.
Exchanges (Swap)
SwapSpace
Exchange aggregator. It compares rates from multiple services and finds the best deal.
Visit →BasicSwap DEX
Atomic SwapDecentralized exchange with atomic swaps. No intermediaries, maximum privacy.
Visit →Purchase / Sale
Trading
MEX
Cryptocurrency exchange with a wide range of coins. Low fees, spot and futures trading.
Centralized exchange - requires some level of KYC
Mixers
⚠️ Do not use mixers!
Bitcoin mixers and tumblers areextremely risky:
- • Most mixers are honeypots or scams
- • You may receive "dirty" coins associated with criminal activity
- • Chainalysis and similar companies can track mixed transactions
- • Mixer operators arrested (Tornado Cash, Samourai)
- • Legal risk - using a mixer can be considered money laundering
Alternative:Use privacy coins like Monero (XMR) directly instead of mixing Bitcoin.
Tips for financial privacy
Anonymous purchase
- • Buy XMR directly P2P for cash
- • Do not use KYC exchanges for privacy coins
- • Use Tor when accessing wallets
- • Never link addresses
Safety
- • Use a hardware wallet
- • Backup the seed phrase offline
- • Never share private keys
- • Verify addresses with every transaction