Credit Cards Suggestions and Tips

Credit Cards Suggestions and Tips

• Shop around for credit cards that have terms and conditions and rates that suit your circumstances
  
  
• Ensure you know what you are signing up to, read all the terms, be aware of any fees or rates
  
  
• Pay the credit card bills on time and if you pay in full you should not incur any fees. Missed payments could result in a bad credit history
  
  
• Keep copies of any receipts from your credit card purchases and compare them when your credit card bill arrives
  
  
• Protect your credit cards and account numbers: don't let them out of your sight, destroy carbon copies, cross through any blank spaces above totals on receipts. Remain vigilent
  
  
• Don't write down your credit card pin numbers and don't give them to anyone else even if they claim to be the bank or the police
  
  
• Keep an eye open for ATMs or cashpoint machines that look like they have been tampered with. If you are suspicious, don't put your credit card in it
  
  
• When using an ATM or cashpoint be wary of people watching you and don't get distracted
  
  
• Keep a list of your credit card numbers and names of the credit card providers or companies in a safe place with lost or stolen contact numbers in case you need to report your credit cards
  
  



• Chip and pin methods are being promoted as a more secure use of credit cards. There is some debate that it is easier to hack into credit cards pin numbers than it is to view card signatures. There are certain security measures to look out for on the Internet when using creidt cards for online purchases:-
  
  * Know who you are dealing with - get the seller's phone number (not a mobile) and postal address (not a post office box)
  
  * Ensure that the locked padlock or unbroken key symbol is shown in the bottom right of your browser window before sending your credt card details
  
  * The beginning of the retailer’s internet address will change from ‘http’ to ‘https’ when a purchase is made using a secure connection
  
  * Print out your order and keep copies of the retailer’s terms and conditions and returns policy. If you are buying from abroad it could be difficult to seek redress