[seanflyon]

> the company refuses to pay

This is a very real problem.

> bank that goes bankrupt

You money is still safe even if the bank goes bankrupt, which it won't.

> Securities ... run by sharks

Doesn't make them any less secure. You do have to do your research before investing and its not the most approachable process, but you can still invest in low risk securities. If you want to cautious you can always buy treasury bonds.

You can pay attention and still not be paranoid.