Buy Virtual Credit Cards
If you’re looking for ways to keep your credit card information safe when shopping online or over the phone, a virtual card may be worth considering. While it’s not a complete replacement for keeping your physical card number safe, a virtual card can give you an extra layer of security and make the process of resolving an unauthorized purchase much easier.
Many buy virtual credit card issuers, including American Express, Capital One, and Citi, offer the option to create a virtual card. These cards, also known as tokens, are 16-digit numbers that replace your primary account number when you checkout at an online store or via a telephone call. They appear on your account statement just as if you used your physical card number for the transaction.
While the concept behind these virtual card numbers is fairly simple, there are some issues that you should be aware of before making a decision to buy virtual credit cards. For example, if you use a virtual card and later decide to return the item you purchased, you could run into some problems. This is because merchants often require the original form of payment to be used to credit back a refund.
Should You Buy Virtual Credit Cards?
However, if you are not using a virtual card for recurring payments, this shouldn’t be an issue. Since these cards have their own unique card numbers and don’t share any of the same information as your primary credit card, it’s impossible for criminals to gain access to your card details or reuse your card in the event of a breach. Additionally, you can usually easily lock these cards from your account if you think your card has been compromised.
The process for obtaining a virtual card will vary depending on the card issuer, but most major card issuers offer a quick and easy way to generate one. This may be through an online portal, a mobile app, or directly through your existing card account. Many of these cards will also include features that you may not find on a regular card, such as a specific spending limit, an expiration date, and even a different security code.
In addition to being a great tool for anyone who shops online or over the phone, virtual cards can be useful for businesses who want to add an additional layer of security. They can be used for recurring subscriptions, such as for software or services like Netflix or Audible, and can help to reduce fraud in the event that a company is hacked.
Virtual card numbers can also make it more convenient to pay for travel, as they can be used internationally. In the case of the CitiBusiness Platinum Select Card, for instance, customers can enjoy a free first checked bag on domestic American Airlines itineraries and preferred boarding. This card comes with no annual fee, foreign transaction fees, and free employee cards.
While a virtual card can be a great way to keep your credit card number safe when shopping, it is not a replacement for monitoring your account and checking your credit report frequently. In addition, you should still use caution when buying anything on the internet, even with a virtual card.