Posted on May 21, 2010.
Virtual prepaid credit cards Cardholders can register for free program on the website of their company credit card. When they want to make a purchase online, they receive a 16 digit number, randomly generated by the company credit card. This temporary credit card number can be used only once or sometimes several times in the same shop.
prepaid virtual credit card numbers were originally designed for Internet purchases, but can also be used for purchases made by telephone and by mail. However, they can not be used for purchases in stores or whenever a traditional credit card plastic is required for payment.
The virtual credit card technology has been for six years, but according to consumer advocates technology has not been very popular with consumers. Interest in virtual credit cards seems to be increasing, however, thanks to recent headlines about identity theft offenses. A key benefit of virtual card programs is that personal information is hidden in the transaction.
A recent study revealed that 46% of victims of fraud by credit card had no idea how the fraud occurred, but 21% said they thought their credit card number was stolen on the Internet . Clearly, the card issuers hope that the virtual card programs will help address these concerns.
The virtual card program is simply an extra layer of security to protect credit and identity of consumers who choose to shop, like installing a security system can protect a house from intruders.
Is online shopping really safe?
Stories of high-tech hackers breaking into computer society on the Internet to steal customer information (such as credit card numbers) stop many people from making purchases online. Although these types of problems do not occur often, there is an ever present fear among consumers that the wrong person can get their hands on their credit card number or other private information.
Because e-commerce booming and the love affair with the Internet, there is much at stake for the credit card companies should they have problems or fears out of hand. As expected, companies are working quickly with the new technology to stop the problems and allay the fears of their customers. Their solution? Disposable or temporary credit card numbers transaction.
Private payments assigns random numbers that are unique to the account of a consumer of real card, but the figures are only temporary and do not reveal private information. This credit card number is valid for a temporary purchase only, which means that it is wrong for someone to drag this number because they will not be able to use it after the purchase original.
For example, each card number is unique to single-use online store that you visit and will not be valid in any other store. In addition, you can use the same number for recurring charges such as monthly bills that you choose to pay online. Though available credit card numbers are not available with most companies still do not be surprised if these types of programs are offered by most major credit card companies soon. Whether you enjoy card numbers for single use, you should always protect yourself with safe practices for Internet shopping.
WorldCardPro Where you can find Secure Virtual prepaid credit cards.