Final answer:
The claim is true; exposing credit cards to permanent magnets can demagnetize the strips, leading to loss of data and card malfunction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that it is not recommended to place credit cards with magnetic strips near permanent magnets is true. Credit cards and other similar cards with magnetic strips can be demagnetized when exposed to strong magnetic fields. The magnetic strips on these cards contain data encoded in the form of magnetic particles. Exposure to a permanent magnet can alter the magnetic fields that store this data, potentially leading to loss of information or card malfunction.
In the context of critical thinking items related to magnetic fields and forces, this pertains to Unit 20.1 that covers Magnetic Fields, Field Lines, and Force. Understanding how magnetic fields interact with materials is critical for protecting data stored on magnetic strips.