In this post, I will cover the topic of using cryptocurrency without the internet, a rising concern in remote regions prone to emergencies. Crypto can be sent and received through various means such as SMS, mesh networks, and offline wallets.
This guide goes into detail about the innovative tools and technologies that enable cryptocurrency transactions to be carried out offline.
About Crypto
Cryptocurrency is a form of digital currency whose transactions are secured through cryptography. Currencies like Bitcoin are popular for being decentralized as they are self-sustaining networks called blockchains which transparent records of every transaction.
With the inception of Bitcoin in 2009, it is not only the first cryptocurrency, but also the most widely recognized and used. Transactions are faster, cheaper, and cross border use is accepted with the absence of a middle man, be it the bank or the government.
With the fragmented and ever changing nature of the market, cryptocurrency is transforming the future of smart contracts, digital payments, and dApplications.
How To Use Crypto Without Internet
Platform: Machankura
Use Case: Receive and send Bitcoin through USSD (no internet or smartphone needed).
Step-by-Step Process:
Dial USSD Code
- From any mobile phone, you can dial a specific USSD code (e.g. *483# in some countries).
Register Your Phone Number
- Follow prompts to link a Bitcoin wallet address to your mobile number.
Receive Bitcoin
- Your phone number is now a custodial wallet. Bitcoin can be sent to your assigned address by others.
Send Bitcoin
- Choose the “Send Bitcoin” option in the USSD menu.
- Enter the Bitcoin address of the person you want to send or their phone number, should they use Machankura.
Transaction Completed
- The backend systems ensures the requested blockchain transactions are processed while you remain offline.
Why Go Offline?
Internet Breakdown and Natural Catastrophes
- Events such as earthquakes, floods, and even outages have the internet become useless.
- Offline cryptocurrency allows for financial operations and transactions while everything else is down.
Distant Areas
- There are millions of people who still do reside in places that have not even basic internet access.
- People in such remote places can be provided access to cryptocurrency services through the use of basic technology such as SMS, radios and even polygraphs.
Evade Government Restrictions
- People residing in nations with strict internet policing, surveillance, and financial crypto transactions are able to bypass state-controlled internet services.
Go Incognito with High Quality Privacy and Secrecy
- Keeping everything around cryptocurrency activities is not easily exposed to hacks and online spying improves the overall level of privacy with crypto.
- Offline signing and keeping wallets in cold storage reduces accessibility to the crypto keys, thus holding them more securely.
Accessible Banking For All
- People with no smartphone or the internet can now use digital funds, which no longer is a privilege.
- Connects those without bank accounts to the international cryptocurrency system.
Pros and Cons of Using Crypto Offline
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Works in no-network zones | Limited support |
| Increased privacy | Requires technical setup |
| Useful during emergencies | Risk of lost keys/data |
Future of Offline Crypto Transactions
Emerging Technologies (Satellite Crypto like Blockstream)
Almost anywhere in the world, blockchain access is available without the need for the internet, providing unrestricted access even during internet blackouts.
Development in Hardware Solutions
There is a growing ability in the control of offline hardware wallets and NFC devices to facilitate locked mobile transactions.
Offline Crypto’s Role in Financial Inclusion
Unauthorized users in remote regions can access unbanked services and retrieve funds as long as they have access to basic smartphones.
Conclusion
in conclusion In regions with limited or no internet access, during times of crisis, or where censorship is a concern, using cryptocurrency offline is possible and becoming increasingly important.
Offline transactions can be carried out securely through SMS, mesh networks, and satellite links. The advancement of technology is working towards making offline cryptocurrency available to all, regardless of location, thereby enhancing financial liberation and inclusion.
FAQ
Can I use crypto without internet?
Yes, using SMS, Bluetooth, mesh networks, NFC, radios, or offline wallets.
What’s an example of offline crypto use?
Machankura lets users send Bitcoin via USSD on basic phones.
Is it secure?
Yes, if you use trusted tools and sync transactions later.
