So I was talking to a relative a few days ago and they mentioned that even though you can use your check card like a visa, its still better not to, if your unsure of the merchant etc...or just want to be safer while traveling.  Better to just use a regular credit card since if the card number gets stolen, then Visa or the issuing bank is responsible and the badguy cant deplete your checking account.

Thoughts?

Did you just come out from under a rock?

Edit- Perhaps that was rude of me. I guess it possible that you have not seen the reports of several of national retailers being hacked and card info stolen. That being said, yes, you are much better off using a credit card instead of s debit card.

While "most" banks will replace monies lost due to fraudulent use on a debit card, that money will not be returned immediately. Some banks will return it within a day, others take weeks. With credit card fraud, you will not be out any money from your account.

This is a no brainer.

Use credit card and payoff each month.
Use 2 step authentication when available (they text you a code to enter)
Call each credit bureau and have them freeze your credit

Do this and you are way ahead of the rest of society.

Always pay off the balance every month (well mostly), but I occasionally want to pre-allocate monthly "discretionary" spending funds into the checking account that is linked with the ATM Visa card.

Yes. Use your credit card to shield your bank account from card fraud. Plus, you can make 1-1.5% cash back with a credit card. My card balance is paid in full from my bank account every bill. I make money by using a credit card.

Ive never heard of the availability of this 2-step authentication.  Will check into it, thanks.
Will freezing your credit stop someone from taking out a new account, yet not harm your ability to purchase or do business with the credit you already have?

Yes. When you need to apply for credit just unfreeze for a week and then it will go back frozen after the time you specify.