Coming from one vet to another, I have heard of people getting targeted with stuff because they go after military (and their lack of knowledge being young and stupid) and get people really messed up. Especially at training locations and deployments. I was stationed at Camp Lejeune for a while and they frequently gave us briefings to warn us away from the dealerships (especially for used cars) around the area and that unless you were buying new to drive to the next city over.
I haven't heard about credit card schemes getting people, may perhaps you might disclose the bank that totally screwed you over so I can make sure to avoid that one. The one that I always use is Navy Fed (I think in all my time with them I have only heard of one person "claiming" they were screwed by this bank) and in my experience it has been the best bank I have ever dealt with. Every time I make a financial decision I still shop around to see what others will offer and end up somehow back with Navy Fed for the deal because they still have the best rates. (I also hear only positive things about USAA)
As far as Credit cards, I am by no means trying to push you into it (if you don't feel comfortable, by all means, stay away), but I have had a credit card with them for 7 and a half years and never once been mischarged, cheated, crazy fees, etc, and in fact in my really early days when I only had a 1k credit limit, I pushed over that amount and never got an over the limit fee. I get the best interest rates with them over anyone else (and I have checked) not that I carry a balance. Anyway, just saying. I know you had a bad experience, but there is good use for a card.
anyway, my two cents, enjoy your car!
