The Best Credit Cards With Virtual Card Numbers — Keep Your Online Information Secure

Some credit cards allow you to generate a virtual card number to use instead of the number printed on your physical card. By using this unique, virtual number, you can keep your card information safe when you use it online.

A virtual credit card can even let you use a newly opened account before the physical card arrives, allowing you to start earning rewards immediately or to start making progress toward a welcome bonus.

Several of the largest credit card issuers offer virtual credit card capabilities for cardholders, and some newer cards are innovating with the technology, making virtual cards more accessible and flexible. Here are some of our favorites.

What are virtual credit cards and how do they work?

A virtual credit card is a digital credit card that replaces the 16-digit code printed on the front of your physical credit card. It’s generally intended for one-time use — though some can be reused — and prevents anyone from re-using stored or stolen card numbers. Virtual cards are meant to limit digital fraud by reducing the risk of your credit card information being stolen.

Virtual card numbers aren’t the same as digital wallets. Virtual card numbers protect your personal card information when shopping online, but digital wallets — like Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Wallet — store things like credit card data, boarding passes and concert tickets. However, virtual wallets can offer similar protections. For example, when you use the card stored in your phone’s digital wallet, a 16-digit number, also known as a token, replaces your credit card number so the receiving merchant can’t see your card’s information.

Even if your issuer doesn’t offer virtual credit cards, you may still be able to add your credit card to a digital wallet for an extra layer of security when shopping online or in person at participating retailers.

Pros and cons of using a virtual credit card

While virtual cards are a great tool to add an extra level of security while shopping online or over the phone, there could be a few disadvantages to consider.

How to use a virtual credit card

You use a virtual card as you would normally when shopping online or over the phone. Rather than using the 16-digit code on your physical card, you use the code generated by your card issuer. In some cases, you can use a virtual card at physical stores that accept digital wallets or contactless payments.

Alternatives to virtual credit cards

Virtual cards can keep you safe while shopping online, but they aren’t the only tool you have at your disposal for keeping your information hidden. If your credit card issuer doesn’t offer virtual card capabilities — or if you’re hesitant to use one — you could use a virtual private network, or VPN, while online. A VPN won’t keep retailers from saving your credit card information, but it can add an additional level of security for your other information.

VPNs bounce your IP address to a place in the world that’s different from your physical location. They can help keep your online activity hidden from prying eyes, third parties or other entities that are seeking your information. It may sound complicated, but it’s no more complex than downloading an application to your computer and following the prompts to set it up. Ideally, you’d use both a virtual card and a VPN.

Should you use a virtual credit card number when shopping online?

Virtual card numbers are a great tool to ensure your personal credit card information remains secure when shopping online. You’ll typically have the option to request a virtual credit card number for one-time use or multiple uses, providing an added layer of security to each online transaction. As long as your credit card issuer provides this feature, you don’t have to apply for a new credit card and accrue a hard inquiry on your credit report.

How to apply for a credit card

Follow these steps to apply for a virtual credit card.

1. Choose a card with rewards, benefits and terms that match your budget and financial goals.
2. Follow the appropriate link above to be taken to the credit card issuer’s secure site.
3. Fill out your financial and personal information, including your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, income and monthly rent or mortgage payment.
4. If approved, the issuer should give you access to a virtual credit card number. Use the card responsibly and remember to always pay your bill in full and on time.