Detailed explanation of international credit cards: classification, advantages and usage precautions
An international credit card is a card issued by a bank in conjunction with the International Credit Card Organization. It allows cardholders to make overdraft purchases worldwide and is used for identity confirmation on international networks. This article will comprehensively introduce the classification, advantages and matters needing attention when using international credit cards.
Basic classification of international credit cards
According to different international credit card organizations, international credit cards issued by banks can be roughly divided into six categories: VISA card, MasterCard, American Express card, Diners Club card, JCB card, and UnionPay card. Among them, VISA card, MasterCard, American Express card, Diners Club card, and JCB card are the more common types of credit cards in the world.
VISA Card
VISA card is a credit card issued by Visa International in 1982 and is currently widely accepted around the world.
MasterCard
MasterCard and VISA have established a global credit card consumption alliance, allowing cardholders to use it within partner banks.
American Express
American Express cards are mainly targeted at high-end customers. Its main products issued in China include ICBC Peony Express Card, China Merchants Bank Express Card, CITIC American Express Card, Great Wall American Express Card, and Minsheng Express Card.
Diners Club
Not only can the Diners Club card be used at POS machines, ATMs, websites and digital platforms, it also provides a number of services including free face-to-face delivery, 55-day interest-free credit, free additional cards and more.
JCB Card
JCB card is a credit card jointly issued by several major banks in Japan and is currently widely accepted around the world.
Advantages of international credit cards
The advantages of international credit cards are mainly reflected in three aspects: safety, speed and simplicity.
Security
International credit cards have powerful anti-fraud systems that minimize the proportion of counterfeit and unauthorized transactions.
Quick
There is no delay in international credit card payment requests, and dedicated customer service, sales managers and technical support services are provided.
Simple
International credit cards support multiple card types, the payment page can be selected in nearly 20 languages around the world, and provides embedded payment solutions.
Notes on using international credit cards
You need to pay attention to the following points when using international credit cards:
Adjust credit card limit
Cardholders can adjust the credit card consumption limit through online banking and other methods to reduce risks.
Credit card ATM withdrawal function
Using international credit cards to withdraw money from ATMs may incur higher interest rates, so cardholders should carefully choose whether to enable this feature.
Security of signature and password
The international banking industry generally uses signatures as consumption certificates, but from a security perspective, passwords are more secure than signatures.
Lost or stolen credit card
Cardholders should understand the bank’s risk terms and contact the bank immediately to report the loss if their credit card is found lost or stolen.
In summary, international credit cards are a convenient and safe payment tool, but you need to pay attention to relevant matters during use to ensure safety [[4].