Not only did you link to the same article again, but both of you are going on as though the $9,000 figure is still true.

If you want to fault credit companies for something they are really at fault for, start with the sleazy practices of "fine print manipulation" where suddenly people find themselves with a higher interest rate or some other penalty because of Clause 45 in a twenty page "disclosure" document. On some cards, if you are late with a payment, bingo! Your rate skyrockets forever.

I get offers to borrow on credit at some amazingly low rate "for six months." That one's pretty obvious, and not quite in the same "sleazy" category.

Card I use most often? American Express. I have to pay an annual fee, but most importantly, I have to pay the bloody bill in full every month. It's been very good for my spending habits.

Revolving credit is dangerous. And for God's sake, never use it on constant expenses like gasoline cards.