Refresh September 12, 2024 9:17 PM ET
 Refresh September 12, 2024 9:17 PM ET

E*TRADE Security Statement

E*TRADE'S COMMITMENT TO CUSTOMERS

Information Security is a cornerstone of E*TRADE policies. Every employee is required to understand and acknowledge the Company's Information Security. Our Information Security program is comprehensive, proactive, and designed to keep sensitive information about our customers secure.

INDUSTRY LEADING SECURITY CONTROLS

E*TRADE uses industry leading technology and systems to protect its customers personal information and privacy. E*TRADE also offers the E*TRADE Complete™ Protection Guarantee, which states that E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley or Morgan Stanley Private Bank will cover any loss that results from the unauthorized use of our electronic brokerage, banking, or lending services.

E*TRADE also provides additional protection by utilizing the following:

  • Encryption: E*TRADE provides a 128-bit secure browser to login to customer accounts and perform transactions. E*TRADE uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) to ensure that any data entered into the web site is encrypted. You can verify that SSL is enabled by looking for the padlock or key icon on your browser.

  • UserID and Password: To access your account, you must provide a unique user ID and a password. E*TRADE also encourages customers to request a Digital Security ID service. Our two-factor authentication solution, which you can deploy on your own computer, uses the device to provide a unique personal access code - a random, six-digit number that changes every 60 seconds. Used in combination with your user ID and password, your personal access code provides an additional layer of protection against unintended or unauthorized log on. For more information about the Digital Security ID please refer to the "Online Security" section of the web site.

  • Session Timeout: E*TRADE uses a time-out feature to log customers off their account after a specified amount of inactivity. This reduces the risk of others accessing your account from an unattended computer.

  • Identity Verification Process: This process is designed to guard against unauthorized access to your account. This adds an extra layer of security to your online account to protect your assets. As a part of this process, from time to time you may be asked to verify your identity before you complete a transaction or request.

  • Perimeter Defense: E*TRADE is protected by firewalls and other intrusion detection mechanisms. The firewalls are configured to reject any unauthorized connections. We continually monitor our defense systems to detect any attempted intrusions or unauthorized connections and employ an annual third party verification test to validate our security defenses.
SECURITY: YOU ARE THE KEY

E*TRADE has taken substantial efforts to protect its customer's information. However, it is important that you take an active role in protecting your personal computer and account log on information.

We ask that you take some time and review the security suggestions provided below:

  • Protect your password. Never share your password with anyone. We also recommend that you change your password on a regular basis. If you feel that your password has been compromised, change the password and notify us immediately. Please refer to the "Contact Us" page on the web site for the best way to contact E*TRADE.

  • Use AntiVirus and Firewall Software. It is recommended that an antivirus product be installed and updated on a regular basis to ensure that your system is checked for the latest viruses on an ongoing basis. It is important to check all downloaded software and emails for viruses.

  • Logoff the Web Site. When you have finished your transactions, it is important that you click the "Logoff" button. If you are using a public personal computer it is recommended that you also close the browser when you are finished.

  • Review Smart Alerts. We recommend that you set up account activity alerts to receive notifications for every transaction in your account(s). You can have the Smart Alerts delivered to email, PDA, or mobile phones. This will ensure that you are notified whenever account activity occurs.

The E*TRADE Complete™ Digital Security ID will be provided at no cost to customers who maintain a combined balance of $50,000 or more in linked E*TRADE and Morgan Stanley Private Bank accounts or who execute at least 10 stock or options trades a month (30 trades a quarter); such customers with multiple account holders will be provided one additional device at no cost. All other customers will be charged $25 per device. A $25 charge may be imposed for each additional or replacement Digital Security ID. E*TRADE /Morgan Stanley Private Bank, at its sole discretion, may impose a fee for this service in the future or may discontinue the service.