How does the ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) work? Is it a safe decision to make instead of a regular visa?

I am planning to go to Australia for tourist purposes. I am an American Citizen. I am thinking of doing the ETA rather than regular visa because it's hassle free, Approved instantly, no paperwork and its cheaper. But is it necessarily effective and safe? How does the ETA work?

Thank you for all the information.

it is very effective and safe(make sure you get it from the australian government site)

its all done electronically,the record of your visa will be in the australian customs system.you will get a conformation number when you are approved

i got one for my canadian husband to come home to australia with me or a visit and there was no hassles at all

enjoy my home country!

The ETA is absolutely safe and there is nothing whatsoever that can go wrong. Make sure you go to https://www.eta.immi.gov.au/ (our official government site) and apply for it yourself. Don't go through a travel agent or any other site.