[OPSEC/Computer] Phishing, General Questions, Advice

I was recently phished (I think) and lost more than $2k. What can I do to remove whatever software, if any, was downloaded to my computer by accident? Also, what are the best wallets to keep bitcoins in? My coins were stolen from my wallet on a DNM when they were up and down and the phisher reset my pin which didn't allow me to withdraw the coins in time. What can I do to prevent another theft? I have been using the DNMs for over a year, 5-10 orders on multiple sites: BlackBank, Agora and another strictly pot site. I would prefer not to lose my flawless reputation as a customer, but I think re-registering with new accounts is the best option, and also wiping my computer clean and starting new; although I will never use this computer on the DNMs again. Any advice about being safe, tips on preventing phishing, anything you've picked up over the years about safety on DNMs would be appreciated. I thought I knew how to do it well but I guess I didn't, thanks in advance.


Comments


[2 Points] The_Madhouse:

Verify links before you go to them also always copy and paste the links never go through a hyperlink. I doubt you downloaded any software or malware that helped take your coins if you did than that's a pretty sophisticated attack. Also where did you get the adress from that's the best chance of tracking them down. Or do blocking taint analysis


[1 Points] just_a_hunch:

I recommend using Tails on a dedicated laptop for the darknet and never store your coins on any market any longer than it takes to make your transaction. Only deposit the amount of coins you need and then do your business. Once they are in escrow, they are relatively safe unless the market does an exit scheme.

For keeping thousands of dollars worth of coins, you might want to look into a trezor hardware wallet. I personally use libertyx to get my coins, then my clearnet electrum wallet, then to my tails electrum wallet, then to the market or tumbler and then market if I'm feeling especially paranoid.

I'm sorry you lost your coins. That always sucks.

As for cleaning up your computer, you could always switch over to a linux operating system. That will clear out all but the worst malware (that attaches to hardware vs software) and if the malware is designed for windows, then linux would render it useless.

LinuxMint is about the easiest to get started with and includes most of the tools you need to switch over from windows relatively easy.

As for how to prevent phishing in the future. Once you get your Tails thumbdrive and laptop going, use KeePassX password manager that's built into tails. There is a place where you can store the URL for each market entry. Use that option.

Always generate a new password for each market.

A different pin for each market isn't a bad idea either.

All of best markets allow 2FA/PGP login. It's in your best interest to utilize it.

It probably wouldn't be a bad idea to look into some security guides too.

https://securityinabox.org has lots of nifty guides that can help you stay safe.


[1 Points] swagpoppa36:

This is where they currently are http://imgur.com/7NwI0ye


[1 Points] u3565572:

Just viewing a bad webpage with IE can compromise your system. But you give no details of what you are running so how can we help you?