Are Online Brokerage Firms Safe?

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By Charles L. T. Kramer

Twenty years ago, buying stock was a pain. It usually involved calling your broker up on the phone. Now there are online brokerage firms. They are so much simpler. They are easy to sign up for, you don't even need to meet with anyone. They are so easy to get to and to place orders.

Unfortunately, many people are still weary of this process, and with good reason. They are afraid of the security on the internet. I hear all the time about fraud on the internet. I've gotten emails from foreigners claiming they need me to help them transport money to the U.S. and they will give me a percentage, or that I have won some exorbitant amount of money that I need to claim right away. I feel bad for those who fall for these and get scammed out of a lot of money.

There are so many different internet scams out there. Some sites claim you can make loads of money while doing barely nothing. People also don't like using their credit cards online for fear of identity theft. These are legitimate concerns and you should be careful.

The big problem with investing online is that you can put a lot of money in investments. When we start talking about our direct money, we really start to worry. Could someone steal my information and login to my account, stealing my money? Maybe they could make up a fake firm and take my money that way?

When looking for an online brokerage firm, there are several ways to protect yourself. First, only invest in a well-known, established company. Don't get pulled in by the low fees of new companies, they could be scams. If they're not, let everyone else test them out.

Also, pick a firm that has many security features. Use a website that has a padlock symbol in the address bar for security. Use a company that goes on and on about there excellent security. Use a company that has several passwords and security checks. Use a company that is protected by the SIPC.

I have been using Sharebuilder for almost 3 years and I am very happy with them. They have all the safety features I described and they are also owned by the reputable bank ING Direct. They also make you change your password at least one time each year.

Never log in to your account from another computer, if you can help it. Preferably you will only use your own computer. Don't use a saved password feature on your computer in case someone else uses it. Always make sure you see the padlock. If there is anything suspicious, remove your money immediately, and finally, always monitor your account.

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