Key Takeaways
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A virtual credit card number lets you make purchases online without sharing the number that’s on your physical card.
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The use of a virtual credit card number may reduce your risk of credit card fraud.
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Virtual credit card numbers don’t work for in-person transactions, but you may have other options by using a digital wallet.
When you hear reports of website security breaches and credit card fraud, you may wonder whether sharing your credit card number for an online purchase is safe. Your credit card company may not hold you liable for unauthorized charges, but there could be some other difficulties. If you have your card details exposed, it could mean you need to request a new card number or spend time to dispute charges with your credit card issuer.
A virtual credit card gives you a number that's tied to your traditional credit card account but isn't the same as the number on your physical card. Virtual cards also include a card verification value (CVVs) and expiration dates that differ from the ones on the card in your wallet.
How does a virtual credit card number work?
You can use virtual credit card numbers as payment for purchases online or in a digital wallet. Virtual cards won't work for transactions that require a physical credit card.
Pros and Cons of Virtual Credit Cards
Why is a virtual credit card a good idea?
A virtual credit card keeps your account number private, so you don't need to change your physical card number if your virtual card number is compromised.
What are the drawbacks of using a virtual credit card?
You can't use a virtual credit card for something you buy in person. This is because virtual credit card numbers are different than the numbers on your physical card. So, the seller won't be able to verify that you’re carrying the card you use to make the purchase.
Virtual card numbers aren't a good choice for a recurring card payment. A virtual card number is usually temporary and may expire before the next recurring payment is due.
Is a virtual credit card the same as an instant-use credit card?
Virtual cards aren't the same as instant-use cards. A virtual card offers a number that's different from the one on your physical credit card, and you can get a virtual card number at any time. An instant-use card is one you can use for spending as soon as you're approved, and the number you get may be the same as the one on your physical card.
Instant-use cards don't necessarily provide a virtual credit card number. And some credit cards that offer virtual card numbers may not have instant-use cards.
How can I create a virtual credit card number if my credit card issuer doesn't offer them?
If your credit card provider doesn't offer a virtual number, there are still ways you can avoid using your actual credit card number for online shopping. To keep your card number private without using a virtual credit card number, you can add your card to a digital wallet on your computer or mobile device, or you can use a service like Click to Pay.
What's the difference between a virtual credit card and a digital wallet?
A virtual card and a digital wallet both keep your physical card number and card details private, but a virtual credit card only works for an online transaction. A digital wallet can work for any seller who accepts digital wallets, either online or in person.
Did you know?
When you add your Discover Card to your digital wallet, your spending earns the same rewards you would earn with your actual credit card. Your digital wallet keeps your personal information safe by hiding it from merchants. Logging into your Discover® Card account lets you easily link your card to your digital wallet.
If you're worried about credit card fraud, a virtual credit card number may help you feel safer when you shop online. A digital wallet can also help keep your account secure by hiding your credit card information from unauthorized users.
