How Do I Protect My Credit?
Protecting your credit is essential to maintaining a healthy financial life. By staying vigilant and adopting smart habits, you can safeguard your credit score from fraud and errors. In this section, we'll explore simple steps to keep your credit information secure and ensure your financial reputation remains intact.
Keep your credit card information secure
Ensure your credit card information is protected
Regularly check your balance and credit card activity to quickly catch any suspicious transactions, and use your card only at trusted merchants. If you suspect your card is compromised, use Card Controls in the USU Credit Union app or online banking to deactivate it and report the issue immediately.
Be cautious when sharing your card information, and keep a record of your card details in a safe place. Use ATMs and gas pumps in well-lit, secure locations. Respond to alerts from your financial institution as they monitor for unusual activity. Inform your credit union of any travel plans to ensure smooth card usage and fraud protection.
Use your credit card responsibly
The number one fear people have when obtaining a new credit card is over using it. This allows unwanted debt to pile up resulting in higher monthly payments, missed payments, or defaulting on payments. All of these things can be avoided when credit cards are used in a responsible way. You don’t need to be fearful, but you should be cautious.
How Do I Protect My Credit?
Protecting your credit is essential to maintaining a healthy financial life. By staying vigilant and adopting smart habits, you can safeguard your credit score from fraud and errors. In this section, we'll explore simple steps to keep your credit information secure and ensure your financial reputation remains intact.
Here are some ways to ensure your credit card information is protected:
Regularly check your balance and credit card activity to quickly catch any suspicious transactions, and use your card only at trusted merchants. If you suspect your card is compromised, use Card Controls in the USU Credit Union Credit Union app or online banking to deactivate it and report the issue immediately.
Be cautious when sharing your card information, and keep a record of your card details in a safe place. Use ATMs and gas pumps in well-lit, secure locations. Respond to alerts from your financial institution as they monitor for unusual activity. Inform your credit union of any travel plans to ensure smooth card usage and fraud protection.
Use your credit card responsibly
The number one fear people have when obtaining a new credit card is over using it. This allows unwanted debt to pile up resulting in higher monthly payments, missed payments, or defaulting on payments. All of these things can be avoided when credit cards are used in a responsible way. You don’t need to be fearful, but you should be cautious.
How Do I Protect My Credit?
Protecting your credit is essential to maintaining a healthy financial life. By staying vigilant and adopting smart habits, you can safeguard your credit score from fraud and errors. In this section, we'll explore simple steps to keep your credit information secure and ensure your financial reputation remains intact.
Here are some ways to ensure your credit card information is protected:
Regularly check your balance and credit card activity to quickly catch any suspicious transactions, and use your card only at trusted merchants. If you suspect your card is compromised, use Card Controls in the USU Credit Union Credit Union app or online banking to deactivate it and report the issue immediately.
Be cautious when sharing your card information, and keep a record of your card details in a safe place. Use ATMs and gas pumps in well-lit, secure locations. Respond to alerts from your financial institution as they monitor for unusual activity. Inform your credit union of any travel plans to ensure smooth card usage and fraud protection.
Manage Your Credit Card Wisely
Use your credit card responsibly to avoid accumulating debt, missed payments, or defaults. While it's important to be cautious, there's no need to be overly fearful.
Tips for Success on Your Credit Journey
Do
- Only spend what you know you can afford
- Check your credit card balance regularly
- Set up alerts to help notify you of charges
- Set up autopay so you never have a missed payment
Don't
- Keep a balance
- Max out your card
- Advance cash off of your credit card
- Make late payments
