Having your identity stolen by a credit thief or scam artist is frustrating. And if someone opens a bunk account or runs up false charges in your name, it can have a negative impact on your credit score. Get “in the know” about which scams to watch for, so you can keep your identity — and your credit score — safe.

Watch out for:

Phishing. If you get an email that looks like it’s from your bank or another agency asking you for account details, it’s probably a crook waiting to cash in. Real companies won’t ask you to verify information by email or phone. Think it might be real? Call the agency using the number on your card to check.

Smishing: This is the same scam as phishing, but with text messages sent to your cell. Keep your eye out for texts from “5000” instead of a real number, and texts that ask for your “immediate attention.”

Vishing (voice phishing): An automated voice message tells you to call your bank or credit card company at a certain number. When you do, they ask for account info. and boom — they’re in. To protect yourself, keep a list of toll-free numbers handy so you can call your agencies and make sure the problem is legit.

Pharming: You’ve heard of this one. It’s where hackers take you from a real website to a fake site where they grab your personal data. Watch out for it on Facebook and Twitter, in particular. Red flags are sites you’ve never heard of and urls without “http” in the address.

Skimming: How low can they go? Here, crooks use an altered ATM slot and cameras to snatch your pin. It’s a red flag when it looks like an ATM machine has been altered. Stay safe by covering the keypad when you’re typing at stores and ATMs.

Spyware: Spyware is software that gets downloaded when you open an email attachment, click on a pop-up window or download a song or game. It then grabs your personal information and uses it to make charges or open accounts. One fix is installing anti-spyware software on your computer.

More ways to protect yourself:

• Always check credit card and bank statements for bogus charges.

• Review your credit report for errors or surprises. You can order one free report per year at www.annualcreditreport.com.

• Shred paperwork and receipts with account info.

• Keep your Social Security card and credit cards stashed somewhere safe.

When it comes to scams, nothing is foolproof. If you think you’ve been hacked or scammed, contact your credit card company, bank and other agencies right away to let them know. If a scammer has opened a false account, ask for the name of the issuing creditor and let them know you’re the victim of identity fraud.

For more great tips on protecting your credit and finances, visit whatsmyscore.org.

Did you ace a test? Land an internship? Are you craving a mid-semester treat? Everyone loves to indulge a little. Whether you’re on a budget or want to start saving, smart splurges allow you to celebrate while sticking to your financial goals. After all, what’s the fun of a shopping rampage or a lavish dinner if you have to pay for it for months to come?

With all of the affordable alternatives out there, the days of “throwing it on the card” are over. As tempting as it may be to spring for that thing you can’t afford, it only takes a few charges outside of your budget to rack up a balance on your credit card that can negatively impact your credit score. To keep debt low and protect your score, try these tips for splurging on a dime.

1. Ditch the five-star restaurant and hit up someplace cool (and cheap).

Sometimes the Moroccan spot on the corner makes for a more unique night out than the high-end restaurant with pricey plates downtown. Do a little online research to find 5-star flavor that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Better yet, blow friends or a date away with a home cooked meal.

2. Score those brand-name jeans or shoes  — for less.

Most cities have plenty of stores specializing in brand name, second-hand threads. Likewise, a trip to the department store outlet can save you on some of the season’s hottest finds. Have to get that jacket at full price? Save up and pay for your reward up front.

3. Wow your friends with a homemade gift or a unique outing instead of going the pricey route.

Write them a song, knit them a scarf, frame a cool photo you took or take them to your secret spot for a picnic overlooking the city. Thoughtful gifts don’t just cost less — they often make a bigger impact.

4. Want to treat yourself to some reward-worthy entertainment?

Check out museums on free days or cash in on matinees and student discounts at your local theater. If you’re into the music scene, pass on that big act coming through and check out the local talent at an under-the-radar venue for less.

5. Get a bangin’ haircut, the budget-friendly way.

Look online for student specials at the go-to salons in your town. Many offer serious discounts on cuts and color for new clients. Local beauty schools also offer styles done by students for a fraction of the price.

There are countless ways to splurge without guilt. That awesome credit score you’re protecting will bring you much bigger perks soon enough — like your first apartment or the car you’ve been wanting for years. Check out more great ways to protect your credit score at Break the Code.

On my first day at college, there was an orientation party for the freshman with music, free barbeque, and a row of vendor’s booths, including the bank I had an account with, pre-approving students for credit cards. Later on, when I called my dad and mentioned that I picked up my first credit card, he asked the same question I’m asking today, “You’re in college, do you really need a credit card?”

As most young adults make their way in the world, we’ve all learned that establishing and maintaining credit is extremely important for getting the stuff we want. A new apartment, a better car, a nicer whatever—it seems like the world is built around credit and the only way to get it is with a piece of plastic. Thankfully, this is not true. While it may be easier with a card, you also run the risk of building unnecessary debt or locking yourself into a poor contract.

For those of you who may want to take a safer route, here is a short list of simple things you can do to build credit without needing a card:

1. Open a bank account.

This one is a no brainer. Most credit applicants will usually be asked about a bank account. Keeping your checking and savings accounts in good standing is a simple way to prove your ability to manage finances.

2. Pay your bills.

Making payments on time is one of the easiest ways to keep a good credit rating and one of the first things companies look at when issuing credit cards or loans.

3. Become a co-signer.

Another simple step you can take is “borrowing” from someone else’s established good credit. Being a co-signer with a parent or guardian can qualify you for loans or other expensive purchases that require payments (see #1). The expense appears on your personal credit report and can help boost your credit scores.

For more on building and understanding your credit score, click here and learn how to Break The Code.

According to a recent nationwide survey by Sallie Mae, students are relying on credit today more than ever. In 2008, 84% of college students had at least one card. Unfortunately, only about 18% of those students (or their parents) were making regular monthly payments leaving them victim to additional fees and charges.

The Credit Card Act of 2009 is looking to give students and minors a hand in escaping debt with a new set of rules and restrictions placed on the credit companies. In addition to requiring students to have an adult co-signer or show proof of income before getting a card, students with joint accounts will now need permission from a parent or guardian before they can increase their credit limits.

Another big change is restrictions to limit a student’s ability to actually get a credit card. People under the age of 21 are now protected from pre-screened credit offers and companies have prohibitions on handing out free food and merchandise on campuses to market a credit card.

While these new laws are a definite step in the right direction, they best way for students to protect themselves from credit debt is still education. In fact, 84% of students from the survey asked for more education when it comes to finances, debt and credit cards.

To learn more about saving yourself from the hassles of debt check out whatsmyscore.org

And for more details on The Credit Card Act of 2009, click here.