If you've never deposited Bitcoin to your Silk Road account: http://dkn255hz262ypmii.onion/wiki/index.php?title=Buyer%27s_Guide#Getting_Bitcoins Read the Wiki. It answers ALL of the questions you've asked above. If you do your due diligence you will not lose money; personally I've spent over $20,000 on Silk Road with absolutely zero problems. Take your time, do your research, and you'll be happy out! Libertas