Keeping you in the red – Did you ever get the feeling that the credit card companies are conspiring to keep you in debt? Well, as they say, just because you’re paranoid doesn’t mean they’re not out to get you: “Credit cards hidden costs – GAO study finds confusing, sometimes misleading practices” – “Credit card companies don't clearly disclose penalties, variable interest rates and other fees, leaving consumers confused about the true cost of using plastic to pay for everyday transactions.” If you really want to drive the credit card companies crazy, pay off your entire balance every month.