Hello,
I read your articles concerning “OPSEC” and was wondering if you could answer a question for me? I am concerned about my privacy with online purchases. I would like to buy some “controversial” items (nothing illegal, of course). For example: An AR-15 80% Lower. How would I do that with good OPSEC? – Dave
HJL’s Comment: Unfortunately, if you are going to pay online, there is virtually no way for you to maintain any sort of anonymity. There will always be a path of traceability. You can help the situation by paying with Postal Money Orders for which you paid cash, but that requires a base level of trust with the entity you are purchasing from. The lack of traceability makes it easier for the transaction to go wrong on both sides. Bitcoin is also a possibility, though it is becoming harder.
JWR Adds: For some purchases, there is nothing better than a face to face transaction at a gun show, paid in cash.