It can be very lucrative if you do it right. I made one solid investment and cashed out at the right time and have been enjoying it for the last couple years.

I wouldn't suggest getting stock tips off a message board though. Do your own research and investigate the companies you are interested in. A five year history is a good start along with any court related incidences, ongoing investigations, environmental issues, and general market value of the actual product produced all influence whether it is a good investment or not.