I recently became aware of this program to generate single use credit card numbers, so I'm passing along the information.


http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/conte...5093001679.html

Citibank has been offering this to its credit card users for years. It's very handy.

How so?

Well it's really easy to use. You set the dollar amount and time limit on the virtual account number and then just copy it into whatever online checkout you are using to shop. It's a way of shopping without revealing your real credit card information. Even if someone does steal it, they can only get their hands on a few bucks rather than your entire credit limit and beyond.

Well I know how it works, I was just wondering how it's useful. So does your credit card company not credit your account if it is fraudulently accessed? Also I would think most fraud occurs when you physically hand someone your card, not when you enter it to a legitimate business online.

I'd use it when I order something by phone or the internet, and I don't want that business to have my real credit card number.
it's just an extra level of security.
I wouldn't use it for Costco, Sears, etc.