 TITLE: Are Credit Cards Safer Than Debit Cards? CONTENT: When Is It Safer to Use a Credit Card?\n--------------------------------------\nClearly, debit cards have some strong budgetary advantages. But there are a few key areas where credit cards are the winner for consumer protection. For example:\n*   **Online shopping.** Both card types can be used for online shopping, but a credit card is the preferred instrument. You don't want to give savvy thieves who troll the internet access to all the money in your checking account, and then have to wait until it's reimbursed.\n*   **Traveling.** When you're on the road, you'll want access to plenty of \"just in case\" money. If you're limited to only what's in your checking account, you could fall short in case of emergency. Also, if your credit cards are stolen and used, your full credit line will be available to you without delay after you report the theft.\n*   **Purchasing big ticket items.** Credit cards are the ideal option for especially costly purchases, such as electronics and appliances, since the FCBA protects you against disputes. If an item arrives broken or isn't what you expected (and your attempts to work out the issue with the retailer fail), you can request a chargeback from the credit card company and you'll be reimbursed. Some credit cards also offer purchase protection, which insures your purchases against theft, loss and accidental damage. If your credit card has extended warranty protection, you can file a claim even after the original manufacturer's warranty period expires. END