Protect your account from unauthorized "pull" transfer requests. When enabled, Transfer Lock blocks other financial institutions from pulling assets out of your IBKR account without your direct involvement (via ACATS or ATON transfers), helping guard against fraudulent transfer attempts. Enable or disable it anytime in your account settings. Disabling may take up to 24 hours to take effect.
What is a "pull" transfer request?
- A "pull" happens when another broker initiates a transfer request to move assets out of your IBKR account (outbound transfers), without requiring your direct authorization at IBKR. The request is made and approved entirely on the other broker's side.
Which transfer methods does Transfer Lock cover?
- Transfer Lock blocks pull requests made via ACATS and ATON transfers. These transfer methods work in a way that allows the receiving broker to initiate the transfer without needing your authorization at IBKR.
How does Transfer Lock help prevent fraud?
- A common fraud scenario: someone steals your identity, or hacks into an account (new or existing) at another broker, and submits an ACATS or ATON request to pull your assets out of IBKR without your knowledge. Transfer Lock blocks these requests, stopping the transfer before it happens.
How can I activate Transfer Lock?
To activate Transfer Lock follow the steps below:
- Log in to Client Portal
- Select the User menu (head and shoulders icon in the top right corner)
- Select Settings
- Locate the User Settings section under Security
- Then select Transfer Lock
Disabling may take up to 24 hours to take effect.
Please Note
- Transfer Lock does not affect transfers that require your approval at both institutions, such as Free of Payment (FOP) transfers. These already require your explicit consent to complete.