Internet security experts assure us that recent advances in e-commerce security have made online credit card applications 10 times safer than sending a paper application through the US Postal Service. Here's why.

Banking institutions that offer online credit card applications use the most up-to-date SSL technology to ensure that their web sites are protected against intrusion and data theft. SSL security virtually guarantees that if you apply for a credit card online using a bank's secure application page, all your personal information can never be stolen or broken into.

Compare this to a credit card application you send via the US Mail. Just think about how many mailboxes are broken into and how many pieces of mail are somehow lost each year. Now you see that applying for a credit card over the Internet is actually the most secure method and it is faster too.

We live in an age of quick, decisive decisions. Consumers who apply for a credit card online want to know if they qualify for their new card now, not in a week or so. Credit Card companies realize this and have responded by offering instant online credit card approval. Banks can quickly access your credit report and FICO score and make an immediate decision on your creditworthiness.

Is it really possible to apply for a credit card online and receive an answer instantly? Yes! Actually, it takes about 60 seconds for the computer to contact the credit bureau's computer and for the bank's computer to determine your eligibility. But you will have an answer immediately.

The interest rate you receive is computerized too. You'll receive the APR that is currently being offered from that financial institution at the time your online credit card application is processed. If you shop around however, you'll find many money saving incentives offered for applying for a credit card online. Some of these great benefits include 0 APR introductory interest rates, free balance transfers, no annual fees and very low fixed rates.