Best Practices for Safely Moving Bitcoin with Privacy

So if I have an old wallet.dat from like 2013 and want to move some coins without raising red flags, what's the best way to do it?

You’ve gotta update your Bitcoin Core first, right? Make sure you get the latest version, then convert that wallet to the new format. Fingers crossed it all works smoothly.

I usually use Coin Control to pick which coins to move. You just craft the transaction after selecting them. But last time I checked, it needed console commands... now there’s PSBT files that make it easier.

If you add the intended address as a watched address in an online wallet, you can create a PSBT easily. Then just transfer it to a secure offline setup to sign it. Super simple.

Yeah, I’ve done PSBT signing with the QT client. It’s pretty user-friendly, even for someone like me who's not super tech-savvy. The workflow seems straightforward.

Exactly. I feel like manually crafting transactions can lead to errors. Using Coin Control and just clicking the options feels safer. Just hope it integrates well with PSBT.

Different wallets for different needs is key. If an address is known, keep it separate from your main stash. Don't spend from a big stash for small buys.

You just enter the amount and the address. The client handles the rest and figures out fees too. Can tweak the fee if you want.

Why even have different wallets? Just create new addresses. But moving 0.1 BTC from a 1000 BTC address can still expose you.

Convenience matters though. If I have a giant stash, it’s tough to spend just a part without leaving a trail.

You're falling into their trap if you're worried about having 'clean' coins. Governments want to control Bitcoin and make you paranoid.

Yeah, exactly. Taint is a mindset that doesn't help anyone. It’s pressure from outside that makes people worry.

Some merchants might not care about taint but others will. It’s all about choosing where to spend.

I get that. If they accept my coins, I’m good. If they don’t, then I’ll find ones that do. Just don’t let them win.

If someone is spending coins from a signature campaign and has a lot, they might run into issues with exchanges flagging their coins.

The problem is, if they label coins as illegal, it’s tough for regular folks. They can block you from spending.

Legislation is the real issue. They can choke Bitcoin by deeming it illegal, making it a nightmare for everyone.

Paying taxes gives peace of mind, sure. But like OP said, privacy and spending big amounts don’t usually mix.

People really need to figure out who they’re hiding from. Is it a shop that won’t take their coins or the government tracking their taxes?

Right? It’s mostly about the fear of the government linking your transactions to you. That’s the real worry.