There are manymeans of payment online. Among them, the virtual bank card still callede-card blueis a credit card that you can use to make online purchases. It has a somewhat special functioning that gives it certain advantages. Let's see how to use aVirtual credit card.
How does a virtual credit card work?
Virtual bank cards are an excellent alternative for people who wish to access their account when they are on the move.It is a practical and safe way to pay for goods and services without having to carry cash on them. They can also be used to protect your identity and keep your credit balance secret.
Virtual credit cards are usually issued by banks and can be used wherever Visa or MasterCard are accepted. The card is linked to your account, which means you can make purchases by entering your card number and PIN code.
The customer may use his e-card up to the specific limit assigned to him or until it expires. The particularity of the virtual bank card is that the customer determines its amount and duration of validity. Once the card has expired or the entire amount spent, it becomes obsolete.
Virtual banking card: security
Although the majority of trading sites are now equipped with high-performance security systems, communicating the information on their Blue Card during an online operation remains a challenge. You will no longer have this concern by using ae-card blue.
Indeed, the code that is transmitted to you during its creation is for single use. The card is individual and capped at the amount necessary for the transaction you want to perform. The entire purchase process is done directly on the merchant's payment interface.Once your payment is made, the card balance is zero and will not be useful in case your codes leak.
In addition, you always have the possibility to permanently or temporarily block the virtual bank card from your customer area if you suspect a hack or fraud.
How to get a virtual credit card?
The first step is to choose the right virtual credit card provider. It is important that it offers a range of means of payment, that it offers competitive rates and that it has good customer service. You must also know the fees associated with each supplier.
In France, you can have your e-card for free at Fortuneo or Revolit. The average rate in other banks is around 12 or 13€ but is 52€ at BNP Paribas and Hellobank
How to create and use your virtual credit card?
It is very easy to generate a blue e-card. You must firstsubscribe to the special virtual card serviceto your bank. Then, from your customer area, you must access the service and set the payment ceiling and the validity period of the card. You then get the following information:
- the 16-digit number of the map;
- the expiry date;
- and a 3-digit CVV cryptogram or code.
You can now pay online with the credit card details you received. Once your purchase is validated, the virtual card information becomes obsolete.
Virtual cards: Advantages and disadvantages
These cards guarantee, among other things, the protection of your identity against fraud. Therisk of cybercrime attack is significantly reduced. You can also avoid giving your personal information when making an online purchase.
In addition, generating a virtual credit card is a simple and fast process. You can do it in just a few clicks and start making expenses securely.
However, since your card is not linked to any account, it cannot be used in shops or in vending machines. You will also not be able to validate purchases that require a commitment or subscription.
If you plan on spending on trips or shopping in stores, it is best to choose a physical card instead because this method of payment is not necessarily accepted everywhere.
Protection against fraud and piracy are strong features of the e-card. The card is easy to access and at relatively affordable prices. But in some situations, it is not always appropriate.