October 29, 2024 · 15 min read
1. Burner Devices
A crucial first step to remaining anonymous is using burner devices. Physically purchasing a device with cash reduces the risk of it being linked back to you. Wear non-distinct clothing, avoid cameras, and pay with cash to avoid leaving a paper trail. Never reuse the same device, and always dispose of it properly after use.
2. Operating Systems
The choice of operating system is fundamental to anonymity. Here’s a breakdown of three popular options:
- Tails OS: A live OS that leaves no trace, designed for anonymity with built-in Tor. Pros include simplicity and ease of use, but it’s limited in functionality.
- Whonix: A robust OS that uses a VM structure, directing traffic through Tor. It’s highly secure, though the VM setup can be complex.
- Qubes OS: An advanced OS for compartmentalization, running apps in isolated VMs. Pros include high security, but it has a steep learning curve and requires powerful hardware.
3. Network Privacy
Protecting your network traffic is essential. Consider these options:
- VPNs: Use a trusted VPN provider that doesn’t log activity to secure your connection and mask your IP.
- TOR: TOR is a free anonymity network routing traffic through volunteer-operated servers, but it can be slower than VPNs and raises suspicion in some regions.
4. Proxies
Proxies act as intermediaries between your device and the internet, masking your IP address. While they provide some level of anonymity, they are not as secure as VPNs or Tor, and should only be used as an additional layer, not a primary solution.
5. Creating Anonymous Accounts
Creating anonymous accounts is crucial for privacy. Use secure email providers like ProtonMail or Tutanota, and privacy-respecting messaging apps like Signal. Avoid linking accounts to personal information and avoid platforms that require extensive personal data.
6. Browser Security
Secure browsing is key to maintaining privacy. Recommended browsers include:
- TOR Browser: Built for anonymity, routes all traffic through the TOR network.
- Firefox: Customizable with privacy add-ons like NoScript, Privacy Badger, and uBlock Origin.
- Brave: Privacy-focused with built-in ad blocking.
Using add-ons such as NoScript, Privacy Badger, and ad blockers can enhance privacy and reduce tracking.
7. Metadata
Metadata can reveal personal information even in seemingly private files. I demonstrated how I could trace a location using metadata embedded in a photo file. Always scrub metadata from files before sharing.
8. Compartmentalization
Separate your work, private, and anonymous digital lives. Use distinct devices, accounts, and networks to maintain separation, minimizing any potential links between them. This habit reduces the likelihood of cross-contamination.
9. Secure Payments
Financial privacy is essential for anonymity. Use cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum with wallets like Wasabi Wallet or Samourai Wallet. For extra privacy, use crypto tumblers to mix your coins, making it difficult to trace transactions.
10. Habit Adoptions
Developing habits like frequently destroying devices, creating disposable accounts, and being “consistently inconsistent” with your online activity helps evade detection. Remember that true anonymity is hard to achieve—reducing your hack value is key.
In the end, absolute anonymity is almost impossible to achieve, but taking these steps helps protect your privacy and minimizes your digital footprint.