This guide provides general research criteria. It is not personal financial, legal or security advice.
Operator identity comes first
Look for a legal entity name, company number, jurisdiction and a working channel for formal notices. A brand name and a polished website do not identify the accountable operator.
Map the custody chain
Determine where assets are held, who can move them, and whether the tool connects through exchange API keys. If API access is used, withdrawal permissions should be disabled and the key should be restricted by IP where supported.
Reconstruct the full cost
Record subscription charges, performance fees, spreads, broker commissions, withdrawal costs and any minimum term. Treat missing pricing as an information gap, not as evidence that the service is free.
Challenge performance evidence
Screenshots, testimonials and provider dashboards are not independent performance records. Prefer time-stamped, reproducible records with methodology, drawdowns and losing periods.
Test reversibility
Before committing meaningful funds, confirm how to revoke API keys, close positions, export records and withdraw assets. Pressure to deposit before these questions are answered is a material red flag.
Use this in a real evaluation
Document each answer and its source. Mark unsupported statements as provider claims, set a review date, and treat material unknowns as unresolved risk. Our methodology explains the full evidence hierarchy.