In the age of information technology, credit card companies are able to keep tabs on you more than ever. With the increased amount of information that they are able to collect on you and your purchases, card issuers are taking a more "proactive" approach in monitoring your spending habits. These spending habits are categorized, leading you to be viewed as a statistic based on what you buy. Some things automatically indicate that you are a credit risk, which can lead to your credit card limit being downgraded or the cancellation of your card.
Cash Advances
When a credit card company sees you using cash advances, it speaks for itself. Someone using a cash advance obviously does not have the financial stability to make ends meet without cashing out the credit card and this can cause credit card companies to pay more attention to you. They will view you as either being incapable of paying your day-to-day finances (and credit card bills), ignorant to use such a high interest option or as a loose cannon (i.e.: gambler).
Alcohol
Alcohol is viewed as a form of escape by many, including credit card companies. Whenever a cardholder suddenly begins making more expenditures in bars and liquor stores, credit card companies will take notice. This indicates that your personal or financial life could be erratic or upset at the moment, which makes you less likely to be able to meet your financial obligations. Unemployed and financially strapped individuals are also more likely to drink, so the credit card companies see alcohol expenditures as a manifestation of an underlying problem.
Dollar Stores
Even where you shop on a regular basis is up for scrutiny by card companies. If you have been shopping at premium outlets and then begin shopping at discount retail outlets and shopping centers, the card companies will see this as a sign that your finances are tightening. Regardless of the reason behind the shopping change, card companies may downgrade your limit due to the fear of your income possibly being reduced. It is generally a good idea to avoid using the credit card for everyday purchases anyway unless there is a cash back option attached to it and you are paying the balance off in full each month.