Legal, regulatory, privacy issues

Auditor will review 650,000 Cap One credit card accounts to ensure money is returned -- Capital One must repay $340,000 to credit card users because the company collected old debts that had been discharged in Chapter 13 bankruptcy. ... (more)

Wachovia-Wells Fargo merger announced -- Four days after Citi announced a government-backed purchase of some Wachovia Bank assets, Wells Fargo Bank has announced a deal to merge with Wachovia. ... (more)

Plastic and terror: Study describes how terrorists use credit cards -- Terrorists are increasingly turning to credit cards, according to a study written by an expert on terror financing. ... (more)

What credit card users need to know to survive the 2008 credit crunch -- Experts advise credit card users to pay down credit card debt and wean themselves off of credit card spending. ... (more)

US credit cards outdated, less useful abroad, as 'chip and PIN' cards catch on -- Sure, you can swipe to heart's content here in the United States. But bring that mag-stripe card to Europe and chances are it won't work as the credit card technology there is light years ahead. ... (more)

Citi acquires Wachovia -- FDIC and the Federal Reserve back Citi's purchase of Wachovia Bank's retail banking assets. ... (more)

As private college loans dry up, students may turn to credit cards -- Students facing a 'perfect storm' of tight job market and fewer available loans may have to turn to credit cards to fund their studies. ... (more)

WaMu is largest bank failure ever -- JP Morgan Chase says people with WaMu credit cards and ATM cards should continue to use them and pay their bills on time to the same payment addresses. ... (more)

False debt reduction claims unfair, deceptive -- The Federal Trade Commission has reached a settlement with four companies for allegedly claiming they could reduce consumers' debts by up to 60 percent. ... (more)

Deadline passed for free TransUnion credit monitoring -- Sept. 24 was the final day for members of the public to sign up for free credit monitoring. ... (more)

Pro-consumer credit card bill passes in U.S. House vote -- The U.S. House of Representatives voted 312-112 to pass a controversial bill that would give credit card users more consumer protections. ... (more)

Key vote on Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights comes today -- The full U.S. House of Representatives is expected to consider the Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights bill today. ... (more)

Despite early controversy, payment cards for immigrants continue to roll out -- Issuing credit cards that didn't require Social Security numbers sparked controversy in 2007. In 2008, banks go after immigrants' business with reloadable prepaid cards instead. ... (more)

Job losses pushing up credit card debt delinquencies -- The American Bankers Association's Economic Advisory Committee predicts a mild recession during the closing months of 2008; job losses are fueling credit card debt delinquencies. ... (more)

Compare today's 0 percent balance transfer offers -- Comparison chart shows that 0 percent introductory periods are shorter, fees tougher to dodge. ... (more)

Are 0 percent APR balance transfer credit cards doomed? -- Consumers' mailboxes used to be flooded with offers for balance transfer credit cards with lengthy introductory interest periods of 0 percent. Not anymore. ... (more)

Australian credit cards and statistics -- Our ongoing series heads Down Under for a look at credit card use and credit card statistics in Australia. ... (more)

Federal Reserve leaves key interest rate unchanged -- Despite recent stock market weakness and trouble in the financial sector, the Federal Reserve left a key short-term interest rate unchanged Tuesday. ... (more)

10 questions to ask about layaway plans -- Looking to layaway? Here are 10 questions to ask that will help you find a good layaway plan -- and avoid those that should be thrown away. ... (more)

Electronic voting by ATM idea hasn't caught hold -- After 2000s contentious election fades into the chaddy past, so does the call to use the banking system's ATM networks as voting machines. ... (more)

Prepaid cards need safeguards against bank failures, groups say -- A coalition of consumer groups is asking for emergency provisions to protect funds held on prepaid debit cards. ... (more)

Should you sign your credit card or write 'See ID' on it -- Writing 'See ID' in lieu of a signature is supposed to make a credit card invalid, but the reality is different. ... (more)

Court orders halt to Texas couple's credit repair operations -- The Federal Trade Commission has filed a complaint against a Texas couple for falsely claiming to repair credit records. ... (more)

How wage garnishment works -- and how to avoid it -- Ignoring outstanding credit card debt can take a bite out of your paycheck as judgments for wage garnishments can follow. ... (more)

Witnesses call for federal legislation at Senate hearing on prepaid calling cards -- Got a minute? Too many prepaid cards don't deliver the ones they promise, witnesses told a U.S. Senate committee. ... (more)

FTC wins suit against debt management company -- AmeriDebt Inc. and DebtWorks Inc. allegedly scammed consumers by claiming to be nonprofit organizations and keeping money that should have gone to pay off consumers' debts. ... (more)

What is debt reaffirmation? -- Reaffirming a loan can be necessary, but too many consumers say debt collectors tricked them into doing it accidentally. ... (more)

6 bad reasons debtors reaffirm debt -- Emotions, lack of knowledge and even deception can play a role in a debtor's decision to reaffirm a debt. ... (more)

9 questions to ask before you reaffirm an old debt -- You need facts to decide whether to reaffirm a debt. These questions will ferret them out. ... (more)

5 steps to avoid identity theft at the register -- Here are some steps you can take to make sure that you aren't victimized by credit card fraud when using your card in person at a retailer. ... (more)

Merchants struggle to secure user data, deter identity theft -- The battle to secure your data never ends. That's why the credit card industry imposes mandatory security standards on merchants, processors, manufacturers of PIN entry devices and application developers. ... (more)

Free credit report -- how to get the actual free ones -- The federal government has mandated the three major credit bureaus give free credit reports to consumers at least once per bureau per year. Here's how to get yours. ... (more)

Identity theft sample letters -- If you've been a victim, this step-by-step guide and set of printable letters can help retrieve your name. ... (more)

Credit card scam: credit card shaving -- Forget high-tech hacking. This credit card scam relies more on X-Acto knives and glue sticks than wi-fi and laptops but can help criminals steal your money just the same. ... (more)

It's fraud when an ex opens credit cards in your name -- It's theft when an ex uses your Social Security number to open credit cards in your name, and should be reported to the police and credit bureaus. ... (more)

Opting out of a credit card rate increase? Keep records! -- When opting out of a credit card interest rate increase, it is critical to keep copies of your letter and mail receipt in case the issuer decides to up the rate again. ... (more)

Protect your computer -- and your identity -- on campus -- Students heading to college need to take precautions to protect their computers and the sensitive information they contain. ... (more)

10 ways students can protect against identity theft -- Campuses are often a young adult's first step away from the safety of home, so they need to raise their technological guard. ... (more)

Tinsel meets plastic: Top 10 Hollywood credit card movies -- Plastic plays a key role in these films -- and teaches money lessons, too. ... (more)

Taking Charge poll: Nearly 3 of 4 Americans favor government regulation of credit cards -- The second annual CreditCards.com 'Taking Charge' survey says Americans mistrust but need credit cards. ... (more)

Tips for uncovering, dealing with hidden credit card debt -- If you find a loved one has hidden debt, you could scream, fight or even ask for a divorce. Experts, however, say there are better choices. ... (more)

Surprise! Unexpected items can appear on a credit report -- Hoping to keep your credit score up? You’ll not only want to stay current with your credit card bills, mortgage payments and student loans -- you may also need to pay any outstanding library fines ... (more)

Buying investments with credit cards? It's unavailable, and unwise -- Laws and regulations exist that determine and limit how much you can use borrowed funds (including credit cards) to purchase investments. ... (more)

Fed leaves rates unchanged; card rates to stay put -- The Federal Reserve, as expected, left a key interest rate unchanged. ... (more)

Interactive guide: Learn to read, understand your credit report -- This interactive guide displays an example of a personal credit report and explains how each part works. ... (more)

Steps to take when collectors violate your rights -- As a credit card account authorized user, you have no financial responsibility for this account, and the bank knows it. That doesn’t stop unscrupulous companies from trying to collect, however. ... (more)

Key Congressional committee passes Credit Cardholders' Bill of Rights -- The House Financial Services Committee voted along party lines to pass a bill to rein in the credit card industry. ... (more)

What to do when a family member forges credit card applications in your name -- When a family member forges your name on credit card applications, you have two choices: Pay the bill or prosecute, says Maturing Loans columnist Alan Klayman. ... (more)

Lending crisis leads to cutting credit limits, hurting consumers' scores -- Cowed by the lending crisis, card issuers are quick to cut credit limits, an act that lowers the ratio of used to available credit, which hurts credit scores. ... (more)

Understanding the Servicemembers' Civil Relief Act -- a law that eases debt burden for active military -- The Servicemembers' Civil Relief Act -- born in 1940 as the Sailors' and Soldiers' Civil Relief Act -- aims to ease the debt burden for those called to actively serve. ... (more)

Stepping up for America's military men and women -- While federal law guarantees some debt relief for soldiers, many top credit card issuers ease the burden of debt for active military by offering protections significantly beyond what the law requires. ... (more)

What happens to credit card debt if a bank fails? -- If a card-issuing bank were to fail, consumers would still owe the money and have to pay it -- but to someone else. Terms might change, too. ... (more)

When is a debt too old for collection? -- Saddled with an 8-year-old credit card debt, a senior citizen living on just Social Security wants to know what her rights are. ... (more)

Proposed credit card rule changes draw massive public comment -- Consumers have turned out in force to support proposed Fed rules reining in the practices of credit card issuers. ... (more)

Foreign transaction fees and rules for the top credit card issuers -- Here are the foreign transaction fees, also known as currency conversion fees, charged by top American credit card issuers to consumers who travel abroad. ... (more)

How to dispute a credit card bill with a merchant -- Dissatisfied with a merchant's product or service? If you do it right, your credit card issuer may step in to help. ... (more)

Fed's G.19 report shows credit card use rebounded in May -- The Fed's latest G19 data shows revolving credit (of which about 98 percent is comprised of credit card debt) edged upward/downward in May 2008. ... (more)

To detect fraud, credit card issuers monitor all your purchases -- Credit card company fraud departments monitor their cardholders purchases to detect unusual patterns or purchases. ... (more)

Statute of limitation for credit card debt, all 50 states -- Creditors have a limited time in which to file suit over unpaid credit card debt. Here are the statutes of limitation for all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia. ... (more)

Credit repair good guys: How to find legitimate reselling and rescoring firms -- Credit repair firms say they can boost your credit score, but it's credit resellers who do the job for less hype, less money and less mystery. ... (more)

Adulthood, legal rights and credit cards: Turning 18 with a credit card -- At 18, young adults can apply for credit. Can you -- or your teenage son or daughter -- handle it? ... (more)

When a family member steals your identity -- Here are the steps you can take when a family member steals your identity to open credit accounts in your name. ... (more)

Rules for merchants handling credit card data -- Safety concerns for consumers' credit card information prompt changes in the way businesses handle data. ... (more)

Evils of 'fee harvesting' credit cards known for a long time -- Consumers should beware of cards that charge upfront fees and carry low limits. ... (more)

5 sneaky credit card tricks -- and how to beat the bank -- Just like Three-Card Monte, these tricks can clean out your wallet faster than you can pick a card, any card. ... (more)

Charging up a storm before filing bankruptcy is considered fraud -- Thinking of loading up your credit cards before you file bankruptcy is considered fraud. ... (more)

Consumers could see refunds from $200 million for 'fee harvesting' credit cards -- Federal regulators are seeking $200 million in restitution for consumers from a major credit card marketer and two banks for how they marketed and issued subprime credit cards. ... (more)

Credit card issuance a matter of black and white? -- Do all Americans really have equal access to credit cards or are some groups more likely to be granted credit than others? A study found where you live may play a key role in whether you're granted a credit card. ... (more)

Dividing credit card debt in divorce -- In divorce decrees, one party often agrees to pay off a jointly held debt. But if your ex turns out to be the deadbeat you always said, creditors will come after you, too. ... (more)

9 tips for dividing credit card debt -- Got credit card debt? Going through a divorce? These steps will help you cope -- and not get stuck with your ex's tab. ... (more)

Credit cards and terrorism: How terrorists use cards -- Interviews with terrorism experts and readings of case studies from around the world reveal that the credit cards have become a favored tool of terrorists. ... (more)

Cashless campus 2.0: Student IDs evolve into multiuse payment systems -- Today's student ID cards open doors to dorms and labs, earn discounts with local merchants, sub-in for loose change at vending and copy machines, and even help with the laundry. ... (more)

Compare credit card rental car insurance coverage: Policies vary widely -- Credit card companies' policies vary sharply, so don't always be quick to turn down rental car agencies' optional coverage. ... (more)

Free credit report and notice of potential interest rate hikes could be required in proposed new rules -- New proposed rules would require credit card issuers to send notices and provide free credit reports when consumers are subject to interest rate hikes based on credit reports. ... (more)

Vacation, travel plans: Charge to credit card, easier to recoup losses -- Recouping your money if your trip is canceled is much easier with credit cards than if you paid with cash or by check. ... (more)

Fed backs rules to curb deceptive credit card practices -- Federal banking regulators are taking unusual steps to protect consumers from unfair and deceptive trade practices in the credit card industry. ... (more)

Fed cuts rates; will your credit card bill fall, too? -- The Federal Reserve's rate-setting committee, in an effort to rejuvenate the economy, trimmed a key short-term interest rate Wednesday, this time by one-quarter of a percentage point. ... (more)

Credit card securities may be in for rough times ahead -- Securitized credit card receivables -- the fuel that drives credit card issuance for major banks -- may falter as credit card defaults rise. ... (more)

How credit card securities work -- Major credit card banks sell millions of accounts to special trusts that issue bonds repaid with monthly credit card payments from account holders. ... (more)

Credit issuers becoming less willing to cut deals with debtors -- Credit counseling agencies could once negotiate lower interest rates on behalf of debt-ridden clients. But credit card issuers are no longer willing to be as forgiving. ... (more)

Environment survey: Americans not so eco-friendly with credit cards -- Americans may well be more environmentally conscious these days, but not if it means making major changes in how they use their credit cards, a CreditCards.com national survey shows. ... (more)

6 tips for dealing with binding mandatory credit card arbitration -- You're probably stuck with binding mandatory credit card arbitration. But these tips will help you cope. ... (more)

Credit card arbitration: What it is, how it works -- If you have a credit card, it's likely you've given up your right to sue if a dispute arises. Most card companies impose mandatory arbitration. ... (more)

A 'green' snapshot: How some U.S. banks are making environmental eco-friendly moves -- A 'green' snapshot: How some U.S. banks are making environmental eco-friendly moves. ... (more)

How to handle collection calls for a dead person's debt -- After a death, creditors may come calling. Here's what to say. ... (more)

What happens to credit card debt after death -- When someone dies with credit card debt, state laws and the original contract terms dictate who owes, and what must be paid. ... (more)

Credit card spending slows -- U.S. consumers slowed their credit card spending in February, according to the latest Federal Reserve release on consumer credit. ... (more)

Deep in debt? You may be able to cut a better settlement deal -- A recent drop in prices that debt buyers pay for bad credit card debts may give consumers negotiating settlements more room to negotiate. ... (more)

4 ways to safeguard personal information online -- As Internet criminals grow smarter and sneakier, it's increasingly difficult to keep your credit card and personal information safe. Here are four fundamental tips. ... (more)

Fed cuts rates; will your credit card bill fall, too? -- The Federal Reserve, as expected, slashed a key interest rate, but whether that cut will be passed along to individual cardholders depends on the bank, the card agreement and the credit standing of the consumer. ... (more)

Don't let a disability ruin your credit -- An unexpected illness or injury can send you into debt and sink your credit rating faster than you can say, 'I need disability.' ... (more)

Credit card thieves 'skimming' pay-at-the-pump gasoline buyers -- As if the high cost of gas wasn't enough, credit and debit card users who pay at the pump have to face a new way to be gouged at the pump: skimmers. ... (more)

Obama, Clinton offer credit card reform plans -- Presidential hopefuls Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are courting voters with reform policies to tackle predatory credit card industry practices. McCain? Not so much. ... (more)

Recession-proof your credit and finances -- Economic downturn. Temporary slump. Whatever you want to call it, you need to be prepared financially for economic ups and downs. ... (more)

Poll: Half of America won't spend their 'stimulus' rebate -- The president wants us to spend it, but most say saving and paying off debt are higher priorities for their economic stimulus rebate checks. ... (more)

Buying pirated music with credit cards: potentially risky -- Those who use their credit cards to buy songs from controversial Russian-based Web sites may be engaging in international piracy. ... (more)

Despite lingering online fears, virtual credit cards stall -- Although the paranoia that spawned them and the hoopla that accompanied their birth have died down, virtual credit cards are still available for those who want extra assurance. ... (more)

Card issuers' bad earnings reshape credit card offers -- The awful annual results reported by credit card issuers may not be felt only by shareholders. They have begun to cause pain to some credit cardholders, as well. ... (more)

Debt collectors' ethics codes -- Associations of debt collectors try to curb abuses in the collections industry. ... (more)

Consumer credit woes mean boom in debt collection -- If you've never been contacted by a debt collector before, chances are growing you will. Collection activity has increased sharply as the economy swoons, and it's more important than ever for consumers to know their rights. ... (more)

Q&A: Credit counselor urges consumer education -- Too few people know about or talk about debt, says the head of one of the major counseling accrediting agencies. ... (more)

11 tips for dealing with debt collection, collectors -- Deal with it, experts say. Otherwise, matters can only get worse. ... (more)

Debt collection sample letters -- Customize and print out these sample letters to put keep collectors behaving lawfully. ... (more)

Know your rights: Fair Debt Collection Practices Act -- Experts say consumers should face the facts and deal with debt collectors, but also know and understand their consumer rights and protections. ... (more)

Visa sets IPO date -- Visa announced details of its impending IPO stock sale, and it's a doozie: Even at the low end of its projected price, it would by far become the largest initial public offering in U.S. history. ... (more)

Keeping up credit while in jail may not be possible -- It's noble to want to help a jailed friend keep up his credit score while serving time, but unless you want to pay his bills, some things just aren't possible, says The Credit Guy. ... (more)

Tips for immigrants building a U.S. credit history -- America lures many who dream of living better. But when immigrants arrive, their credit histories rarely make the trip. ... (more)

10 wacky ways to spend 'stimulus' money -- Anyone can be responsible with the windfall from the economic stimulus package. But can you creatively blow the money? We could. Here are 10 ideas. ... (more)

10 wise ways to spend 'stimulus' money -- Here's 10 suggestions from experts for smart ways to spend the windfall from Uncle Sam's economic stimulus package. ... (more)

Americans say they'll take rebate money and pay off debt -- The economic stimulus windfall is on its way and Americans tell pollsters they'll use it pay off debt. Yeah. Sure. ... (more)

Banks may cut slack for tornado victims -- After dozens of tornadoes whipped through the South, killing at least 57 people, the federal government, banks and credit card issuers offer relief. ... (more)

Health care credit cards rise to fill insurance gap -- As the ranks of the uninsured soar, a new generation of health care cards is emerging on the market, but not everyone is cheering their arrival. ... (more)

CreditCards.com poll results: Credit and health care costs -- A CreditCards.com poll finds a majority of Americans realize that inability to pay their share of health care costs has the potential to wipe them out financially. ... (more)

How to opt out of credit card rate increases -- If you've been notified that your interest rate is going to jump, you can pay your credit card off at the old rate, but you lose use of the card, says The Credit Guy. ... (more)

Fed rate cuts and your credit card -- The Federal Reserve's rate-setting committee, trying to give a flagging economy an adrenaline boost, again lowered a key short-term interest rate Wednesday. ... (more)

How young is too young for credit cards? -- Preparation for wise credit card use should begin early to help children avoid trouble when they can legally apply for cards at 18. ... (more)

Bankers, poker players oppose Feds' online gaming rules -- The legality of online gambling has long been debated by U.S. officials, but the latest regulation efforts have tried to shut down the money conduit -- payments systems that enable online bets. ... (more)

Disclosures would increase on subprime credit card fees -- Subprime cards carry upfront fees that the Federal Reserve board contends are not clearly disclosed to customers. ... (more)

Regulation Z proposed changes for minimum payments -- Credit card companies and credit issuers would have to tell account holders how long it would take to repay loans if they make minimum payments. ... (more)

Regulation Z amendments would require changes in credit card terms -- Regulation Z amendments would require changes in credit card terms to be displayed in a table for easy reading. ... (more)

Rules for credit card periodic statement disclosures -- Under proposed federal rule changes, monthly credit card statements would include tables to clearly disclose fees, interest, purchases and other details. ... (more)

Credit card reform: The fine print of proposed changes to Regulation Z -- Regulation Z requires creditors to disclose all costs and terms before a new credit card's first use. However, according to the board, "Currently, there are few ... (more)

Regulation Z rules proposed for credit card fee disclosures -- Credit card companies would have to clearly disclose fees charged to credit cardholders. ... (more)

Regulation Z would require credit card APR disclosure rules -- Regulation Z would require credit card companies to clearly disclose APRs. ... (more)

Regulation amendments propose fixed rate credit cards -- Fixed credit card rates would actually be fixed under Regulation Z amendments. ... (more)

Reg Z proposes credit card notice of term changes to 45 days -- Changes in terms of credit card contracts would need 45 days' advance notice. ... (more)

'Regulation Z' overhaul to change credit card fine print rules -- The Federal Reserve Board has proposed the most sweeping changes in nearly 30 years to credit card disclosure rules, known as Regulation Z. ... (more)

Regulation Z: Feds move to change credit card rules -- The Federal Reserve Board is likely to decide on final credit card disclosure rules in 2008. ... (more)

How the public feels about Regulation Z proposed changes to credit card disclosure rules -- Comments from consumers, credit grantors, payment processors and others on proposed changes to credit card disclosure rules ... (more)

The history of credit cards -- A history of credit cards, including the first general use credit card and the first charge card. ... (more)

The short, unhappy life of a credit card -- On average, a card lasts must three years before delamination, degaussing or (ulp!) scissors, so CreditCards.com asked one credit card to reminisce about its short unhappy life. ... (more)

Identity Theft: Consumers are attacked on smaller commercial websites -- Credit card dangers, such as identity theft, can pose a greater threat on smaller websites. ... (more)

Anatomy of a credit card -- Ever wonder what all those numbers mean, or what's on that black stripe? Find out here. ... (more)

Consumer rights for credit and debit cards -- U.S. Central Bank interest rates have been raised on variable-rate credit cards and home equity lines of credit. ... (more)

Credit card industry: The Senate weighs in -- Is the credit card industry heading toward the same debacle as the subprime mortgage industry? If unfair and deceptive trade practices continue -- and more ... (more)

Feds propose new right for consumers in credit disputes -- It will become a bit easier for consumers to dispute changes in their credit reports directly with banks or companies, according to a newly published federal regulation. ... (more)

Time's running out to claim currency conversion fee refund -- Consumers need to act fast in order to claim their share of a court-ordered multimillion dollar settlement with credit card giants over poorly disclosed fees on foreign transactions. ... (more)

CreditCards.com survey of leading gift card providers -- CreditCards.com surveyed leading gift card providers to compare popular gift cards. ... (more)

Moving abroad? Your credit history in the U.S. won't follow -- No matter how good your credit in the U.S., if you need to establish credit in a foreign country, expect to start over. ... (more)

Credit card fraud monitoring can halt legitimate purchases -- While no one disputes the good that comes from preventing fraudulent transactions, overactive anti-fraud programs can prevent cardholders' legitimate transactions. ... (more)

Credit card fraud and online shopping -- Learn the credit card fraud dangers of online shopping and how to avoid them. ... (more)

Credit freezes go national, get chilly welcome -- All three major credit bureaus have rolled out credit freezes as an identity theft fighting tool, but consumer rights groups say the changes don't go far enough. ... (more)

Disaster Preparedness Information - Using Credit Cards Wisely During Catastrophes -- How does a catastrophe impact my financial obligations? Learn what to do at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Cardholders in Wildfire Stricken CA Aided by Banks -- Banks are working with victims of the California wildfires. Learn how at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Pre-disaster financial preparedness checklist -- If there's an disaster, you have to react quickly to make sure your important financial records remain safe. This checklist will show you how. ... (more)

Details of credit freeze laws in all 50 states -- Most states have passed credit freeze laws to combat identity theft and fraud. Here are the details for each state. ... (more)

Establishing credit for your children -- The demise of so-called 'piggybacking' has closed one avenue to getting kids a credit head start, but there are others. ... (more)

Bail yourself out of jail -- with a credit card -- The difference between spending a night in jail and getting out on bail may depend on whether your wallet contains a credit card. ... (more)

Credit card industry facts, debt statistics 2006-2008 -- Read recent credit card statistics, surveys and research from a variety of sources. This frequently updated compilation of credit card statistics is all sourced, making fact-checking and research easy. ... (more)

CreditCards.com editorial corrections policy -- CreditCards.com strives to publish accurate information. If you believe we have published something in error or wish to comment on an article, please e-mail us at editors@CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Interest rate cut won't reach credit card rates (Aug 2007) -- Federal interest rate cut may not affect the federal funds rate for some time. (Aug 2007) ... (more)

Prepaid Credit Card Company: EDP gets blocked by FTC -- The FTC has blocked prepaid credit card company EDP after complaints of unauthorized withdrawals. ... (more)

National Consumer Law Center report advises credit card industry changes -- A National Consumer Law Center report contends the credit card industry pushes consumers to borrow beyond their means, and recommends new regulations. ... (more)

Thieves use charitable donations to enable credit card scams -- Crooks who want to see whether stolen card numbers are valid use charitable donations to check. ... (more)

Travel credit card insurance concerns finds American Express in legal battle -- American Express could face a class action suit on charges it billed cardholders for travel insurance unnecessarily. ... (more)

Higher gas prices bump pump limits -- Higher gas prices have credit card users bumping up against limits on pay-at-the-pump charge amounts. ... (more)

Major credit cards may deny purchase of lottery tickets -- Can you buy lottery tickets with your credit card? Perhaps not, as reported by CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Canadian gets 11 years for bad credit credit card scam -- A Canadian man was sentenced to 11 years in jail for a scam that fraudulently promised bad credit credit cards to U.S. consumers. ... (more)

Credit card companies might have a liability risk -- An article in the University of Illinois Law Review charges that a case of products liability could be leveled against credit cards. ... (more)

Credit card study shows Americans' feelings towards credit cards -- A new credit card study shows many people think credit cards are an easy way to fall into debt. ... (more)

Credit card privacy: keeping your customers' information safe -- Merchants need to be sure they are taking all the necessary precautions to protect their customers' credit card information. Losing customers' credit card information is an ... (more)

What you need to know about your rights in credit reporting -- Consumers with bad credit should be aware of their rights when it comes to credit reporting. ... (more)

Credit Card Information: Federal Reserve proposes new guidelines for terms -- The Federal Reserve has proposed new rules that would require credit card issuers to communicate rates and fees through credit card disclosures more clearly. ... (more)

Predatory lending often targets consumers with bad credit or low incomes who may have fewer options when borrowing money -- Predatory lending involves unfair interest rates and fees and often targets consumers with bad credit or low incomes who may have fewer options when borrowing money. ... (more)

Hidden credit card 'currency conversion fees' for overseas purchases may be returned -- Hidden credit card 'currency conversion fees' may be returned -- if you file soon. ... (more)

Unemployed? Poor credit can leave you jobless -- Poor credit could affect whether you get hired for a job, since many employers look at applicants' credit reports. ... (more)

ABA says card industry responding to criticism -- The head of the American Bankers Association told lawmakers that the credit card industry is responding to criticism. ... (more)

Mastercard sponsorship of World Cup in question. -- Swiss panel influences Mastercard sponsorship battle over World Cup. Read more at CreditCards.com ... (more)

Pocket-sized devices enable credit card skimming -- Pocket-sized scanners allow crooks to skim credit card information when consumers hand over their plastic at stores, restaurants, and gas stations. ... (more)

Bank of America sued over "Keep the Change" program -- Bank of America is being sued for allegedly infringing on another company's patent with BofA's "Keep the Change" program for debit card purchases. ... (more)

Minimum credit card payments rise -- The increase in minimum monthly payments for credit cards issued by major banks has both positives and negatives for consumers. ... (more)

Identity Theft: Fraud targeting small businesses over the telephone -- Identity theft over the phone has merchants revealing shopper's credit card information. ... (more)

Beware of unsolicited First National 'credit cards' in the mail -- Consumers who activated what appeared to unsolicited credit cards from First National may have found out too late that these mailings instead contained merchant cards. ... (more)

Credit card privacy: Credit cards offer better fraud protection than debit cards -- Paying with a credit card offers greater fraud protection. Learn why they're safer than debit cards. ... (more)

Credit card security law holds retailers accountable in Minnesota -- Learn how a credit card security law holds retailers accountable for storing account numbers stolen for fraudulent purposes. ... (more)

Card issuers to pay $336 million for currency conversion fees -- Credit card holders could get back the additional 2 percent in foreign transaction fees after major U.S. credit card issuers agreed to pay $336 million in claims for charging undisclosed currency conversion fees to Americans who used their credit cards and debit ... (more)

Financial literacy programs promote credit responsibility -- Lenders and universities are creating programs to help students avoid credit card debt by giving them the opportunity to gain financial literacy. ... (more)

Vishing: Credit card fraud that starts on the phone -- A type of credit card fraud called 'vishing' starts with fraudulent inquires about personal information over the phone. ... (more)

Learn how to avoid the latest credit card identity theft scam -- Learn how to avoid a possible identity theft scam. ... (more)

Your credit card may provide rental car damage coverage -- Your rental car may already be insured with credit card coverage. Learn more at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Credit card issuers respond to Senate inquiry -- Credit card issuers Bank of America, Citi, and Chase responded to a U.S. Senate panel's tough look at their industry. ... (more)

Credit Card Offer: Pilot program doesn't require Social Security number -- A pilot credit card offer doesn't require Social Security numbers, fueling controversy over illegal immigration. ... (more)

Your credit card, Social Security numbers: Are they online? -- Are your credit card and Social Security numbers online somewhere? A new tool lets you find out. ... (more)

Citi Cards stops practice of universal default -- Does universal default affect you? Citi Cards stops universal default on its Citi-branded credit cards. ... (more)

Boston meters stop taking credit cards -- Boston discontinued credit card and debit card payments at its new parking meters, after city officials learned that their minimum purchase requirement of $2 with plastic violated Visa and MasterCard rules. ... (more)

Tax season is a popular time for mail thieves to steal W-2s from mailboxes -- Tax season is a popular time for mail thieves to steal W-2s, which can allow them to open credit card and other accounts in the victim's name. ... (more)

Senate considers credit card industry reforms -- Critics are focusing on credit card industry practices they believe are a danger to consumers, although Capital One and others have risen to the credit card industry's defense. ... (more)

Credit card lawsuit: Visa and MasterCard penalized over debit card fee -- Visa and Mastercard to pay government in a lawsuit settlement. ... (more)

Plan requires NYC taxis to accept credit, debit cards -- New York City Council is evaluating the costs and benefits of a new plan that would require city taxi drivers to accept payment by credit ... (more)

Steps to take to protect yourself from identity theft -- There are a number of steps credit card users can take to avoid becoming the victims of identity theft. ... (more)

Identity theft scam: Magazine inserts give identity thieves new opportunities -- Consumers need to be aware of the danger to their personal information from preprinted, preapproved credit card applications included in magazines and catalogs. ... (more)

Boston parking meters require minimum charge in violation of Visa, MasterCard rules -- Boston's new parking meters have a minimum charge requirement for payment cards, in violation of rules set by credit card associations Visa and MasterCard. ... (more)

Credit card rate: The connection with Federal Reserve rates -- Your credit card rate is closely tied to the Federal Reserve's targeted interest rate. ... (more)

Online gambling: Law bars processing credit card bets -- The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act calls on credit card companies and banks to stop processing online gambling transactions. ... (more)

Visa, MasterCard take new steps to stop credit card fraud -- Visa and Mastercard are fining merchants with unsecured credit card transactions. Read more at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Visa, MasterCard suspend credit card transactions on illegal music site -- Visa and Mastercard cancel credit transactions on illegal music sites. ... (more)

Visa blocked from helping to challenge MasterCard for World Cup sponsorship -- Visa sponsorship in question due to MasterCard and FIFA lawsuit. Read more at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Credit card privacy concerns: Identity thieves can find your information -- Your credit card privacy may not be as secure from identity theft as you think. ... (more)

Credit Report Freeze Laws: Selecting who views your credit history -- Florida passes a law allowing consumers to freeze their credit report and limit who sees their credit report in an effort to reduce identity theft. (July 2006) ... (more)

Credit card spam charges involve smaller, less noticeable theft -- Credit card users need to look out for spam charges -- smaller unauthorized transactions which thieves hope to sneak by on credit card bills. ... (more)

Secure Credit Card - Companies unite to make your information safer -- Major credit card companies come together to help give consumers an even more secure credit card. ... (more)

Identity theft techniques and protection tips -- Learn the latest identity theft techniques in order to protect your finances. ... (more)

New $1 scam for credit cardholders -- Article alerting credit card holders to the danger of the new one dollar scam, which can be avoided by careful examination of credit card statements. ... (more)

Throwing away old computer? Beware unerased old online credit card data -- Throwing away your old computer? Ensure you remove valuable information left from online credit card transactions. ... (more)

New York governor vetoes bill to protect credit card debtors -- New York Gov. George Pataki vetoed a bill that aimed to protect consumers from having their credit card interest rates increased under so-called universal default -- which allows card issuers to boost APRs for failure to pay an unrelated bill on time. ... (more)

Credit card comparison: Consumers warned to read fine print -- With some work, you can understand and compare the fine print of credit card offers. ... (more)

Visa credit card company announces plans to restructure -- Visa credit card company will become a global corporation with public stock. Read more at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Credit card digits: Understanding numbers on a credit card front and back -- American Express, MasterCard, Visa and Discover all have 16 numbers -- but all those numbers have different meanings ... (more)

Visa security keeps your identity safe when using credit cards -- Want a secure credit card? Find out how Visa Security keeps you safe. ... (more)

Top Credit Card Companies Show Growth as Consumer Debt Surges (2006) -- A rise in consumer debt has led to top credit card companies posting high second-quarter earnings (2006). ... (more)

Credit card debt information (2006-2007) -- Listing of facts and statistics related to the credit card industry and personal debt. ... (more)

Credit card receipt rules change: Is your card receipt safe? -- Laws attempt to keep credit card and debit card receipts safe from criminals looking to use account information, but consumers must also keep an eye on their card receipts. ... (more)

Identity theft: Phishing alerts issued by Chase, Bank of America -- While many banks have been victims of phishing, online fraudsters have recently used the technique to target Chase and Bank of America credit card and bank account customers. ... (more)

Online Gambling: Credit cards could be banned as payment -- A bill was passed banning the use of credit cards for online bets. Does this affect you? ... (more)

Credit Card Fees Hurt Merchants and Consumers -- Should Congress take control and manage credit card fees charged on every transaction? Retailers say yes. ... (more)

Fed increases interest rates -- The Federal Reserve increases interest rates on variable-rate credit cards and home equity lines of credit: June 2006. ... (more)

Federal Reserve interest rates increased in May 2006 -- The Federal Reserve has announced another interest hike while fighting inflation (May 2006). ... (more)

Tax Refund: Use it to pay off debt -- How to use your tax refund to pay off credit card debt. ... (more)

No fee tax payment with MasterCard -- Learn how you can make a no fee tax payment with your MasterCard debit or credit card. ... (more)

Credit card minimum payments rise -- Credit card minimum payments are increasing. ... (more)

Apply For A Credit Card through Bank of America at CreditCards.com -- Now that the Visa and MasterCard stranglehold has been broken over which bank can issue which card, Bank of America has announcd its plans to issue American Express cards. ... (more)

American Express cards coming to a bank near you -- American Express is now able to issue cards through banks and partner with national retailers. ... (more)

Identity Protection Tips: What to do when your card is lost or stolen -- Losing a debit or credit card can have drastic repercussions. Learn what to do at CreditCards.com. ... (more)

Credit card phishing scam: How it works, how to prevent it -- What 'phishing' means and how consumers can prevent being a victim of the scam. ... (more)

Credit card skimming information and prevention -- Learn about credit card skimming and find out how you can protect yourself from fraud. ... (more)

Bankruptcy law updates close loopholes in repaying debt -- A new bankruptcy law update has closed loopholes that previously left people unaccountable for repaying all debt. ... (more)

Credit card applications: Decrease the amount of junk mail -- Read tips on how to cut down on the number of unnecessary credit card applications. ... (more)

Credit Card Terms: A glossary of commonly used words and terms. -- Understand commonly used words, phrases, and acronyms in the credit card industry with this credit cards glossary. ... (more)