What is phishing?
It is an email fraud used by internet criminals to fool consumers into providing them with confidential information.  

A typical phishing example
If you receive an unsolicited email, probably from an institution you know, with a link for you to contact the institution.

One of the excuses might be that the consumer needs to “update” the personal information for technical security purposes. 

Identify fraud or theft
Fraud is any transaction that hasn’t been made by you, and has damaged or could damage your assets. There are different types of fraud; some of them are listed below: 

If you have ever had credit, SUGEF’s Credit Bureau Agency (SUGEF) or another credit protection agency probably have your credit history. SUGEF’s Credit Bureau Agency is the official credit information gathering central, while credit protection agencies are private companies that gather information through investigations made in different levels. In spite of that, in both cases agencies gather and share information with creditors, insurance companies and other entities, about the manner people pay their debt.

Become a responsible consumer!

After deciding what type of credit you need, and how much credit you can allow yourself; the following steps will help you keep good credit history: 

Some people believe that a credit card can be used to all kinds of purchases. However, you could manage your expenses better if you charged large expenses to your credit card, since it offers a good indication of your monthly expenses. 

Another good way to use your credit card is on purchases linked to “sales” or “points” you can exchange later. 

Is it the first time you have credit?
If you are using a credit card for the first time, this site is exactly what the doctor has ordered! We gathered in this site information that will help you take control of your finances, and spend responsibly!

Make sure you control your credit card, not the other way around.

Credit cards are like a short term loan. It is the most popular personal credit there is, and also the least understood.  Even though it seams easy to use – just swipe it, right? – There is a right and a wrong way to do it.

The correct way to use your credit card 

Avoid signing blank receipts. When signing, trace a line through blank spaces.

Keep your credit card receipts on a safe place so you can compare them with your statement.

Take with you only the cards you use the most, leave the rest at home. If there are some of your cards that you don’t use at all, cut them in pieces and throw them away.

1. Treat your credit and debit card as the keys to your home: don’t loose sight of them.

2. Never write your PIN on your card.

3. Never throw away credit card receipts in public trash cans.

4. Select a PIN not so obvious to other people, and never write it or save it close to your card.

5. Cancel all inactive credit accounts.

6. Never provide your card numbers to unknown people on the phone.

Credit cards are easy to use and administrate if you understand them fully. Besides, they allow you to make payments world wide. We recommend you learn basic elements to administrate and use your credit card in a smarter way.
 
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