[robjan]

In the UK, at least, if a transaction paid with a credit card is between £100 - £30k and the merchant becomes unable / unwilling to render the goods / services, you get the full amount back under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. This is to prevent people from being in debt for things they never receive. You don't get that protection with a debit card.

I'm sure other countries have similar protection.

[throwaway201103]

AFAIK in the US, the merchant is not allowed to charge the card until the good/service has been delivered (or shipped). I'm sure some do anyway...