I opened a free checking account the other day with First Bank. They were offering a $50 bonus, so I thought "why not?" It only took me a few minutes online.

Then, a few days later I got an envelope in the mail with my debit and credit cards. Inside the credit card information was this printed advertisement:

Is that not the most ridiculous ad you have ever seen! I can't believe they actually think that would be effective!

The sad part is, it probably is effective. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm all for reaping free cash back rewards with credit cards by paying for things like bills and other necessities- that's just being smart. But when an advertisement encourages you to spend $500 in order to get back $5 - That's absolutely crazy!

Crazy or not, many people will fall victim to this little ploy and end up spending 30% more than they probably should. It's amazing how credit card companies come up with these little "perks" to get into our little heads and make us think that spending is earning. Brilliant and ridiculous all at the same time.

Have you seen any ridiculous ads lately? Anything that makes you want to say REALLY?!!