(WXYZ) – JoAnne Purtan’s Don’t Waste Your Money report she warns of dangerous online searches and changes in how credit card companies do business.
Credit Card ChangesThe so-called “Credit Card Bill of Rights” won’t go in effect until next year, but some credit card changes start this summer.
Beginning August 20, credit card companies must give a 45-day written notice in most cases if they raise interest rates or make other significant changes to your account. They also must make a reasonable effort to mail the bill to you at least 21 days before it is due.
Many more rules go in effect next year, but until then many credit card companies are using the time between now and then to raise interest rates or slash credit limits.
Robin Thompson is a money coach and advises that you read all the fine print and disclosures.
Thompson: “And what you think may be junk mail could be a change in your credit limits.”
If you have any extra money each month, put it towards your credit card debt.
Dangerous Online SearchesA new report from the security firm McAfee warns scammers are taking advantage of our love for music and screensavers by load them with spyware and viruses. McAffe’s number one most dangerous terms for 2009 is lyric, followed by free videos, free music, and free screensavers. McAfee says there’s a fifty-fifty chance you’ll get more than you asked for.
The complete list of dangerous terms is at:
http://us.mcafee.com/en-us/local/docs/most_dangerous_searchterm_us.pdf Be sure to stick to reputable sites and install the latest anti-spyware and anti-virus software.
