Sainsburys Bank would like credit card deals made easier to understand to help customers find the best option to suit them.
A study carried out by Sainsburys Bank found that over half of credit card holders have access to a reward scheme, though less than a quarter of them have actually claimed any of the rewards. This figure is made worse when it is considered that the number of credit cards offering rewards has gone up to 190, from just over 120 three years ago.
The people who responded to the Sainsburys Bank survey gave the main reason for not claiming rewards on their credit cards as it just not being worth it. Over 40 percent of people claimed that the effort needed to get the reward simply was not worth it.
An American Express survey has shown that identity theft is more of a worry to people now than many physical attacks.
Over half the people surveyed by American Express worry that they will have their identity used by someone else, with the biggest increase being amongst the 18 to 24 year olds, with the concern up by 8 percent compared with last year. Costing over GBP1.3 billion each year identity theft is a very real crime and as our use of chip and pin cards, the internet and technology increases so do the chances of our personal data being taken.
In reality the risk is relatively low, growing lower still if simple precautions are taken. American Express advise internet users not to provide their details to any sites they do not trust, to shred their documents before disposing of them and to make sure their computers are password protected, and not with either birthday or mothers maiden name, which are by far the most common ones used.
In a study carried out by Saga Insurance it has been found that the younger generation, especially males, are more likely to fall victim to credit card fraud.
Men under 50 are more likely to have several credit cards, making any fraudulent activity much harder to spot. It has also been shown that this sector of the market tend to carry themn all with them in their wallets. A Saga Insurance spokesman felt this was a worrying situation and urged people to take more care over their statements and also where they keep the cards.
He added that the younger consumer was probably less worried about credit card fraud, feeling it would not happen to them. However it has been shown that it can and does happen to people just like them so Saga Insurance are hoping the message will get through.
