With Diwali 2025 approaching, banks, brands and e-commerce platforms are flooding shoppers with festive credit card deals. From cashback and discounts to zero-cost EMIs and flash sales, the offers look difficult to resist.

But financial planners warn that using credit cards without caution can lead to unexpected debt, penalties and long-term damage to your credit score.

Below are key risks to watch out for and safer ways to shop this festive season.

THE TRUTH BEHIND ‘NO-COST’ EMIs

Many shoppers believe that zero-cost EMIs mean interest-free payments. In reality, the cost is often hidden in inflated product prices or processing fees.

What looks attractive at checkout can stretch your budget for months and turn expensive if you miss even one instalment. Always compare the upfront pric

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