What is a virtual card and how do I create one?

A virtual card is a real card number without the plastic. It is issued instantly and is designed for online and in-app payments.

Creating one

1. Sign in and open Cards → Virtual cards.
2. Choose Create virtual card and select the funding account.
3. Give it a name — "Subscriptions" or a supplier's name makes tracking easy.
4. Optionally set a spending limit or an expiry date.
5. Confirm with your one-time passcode. The card details are revealed after a further check.

Why they are safer

• Your main card number is never exposed to the merchant.
• A per-card limit caps the damage if the merchant is breached.
• You can delete a single card the moment a subscription turns unwanted, without disturbing anything else.

Limitations

Virtual cards cannot be used at an ATM, and some merchants requiring a physical card present will not accept them. Where a merchant needs the card that was used for collection — hotels and car hire, typically — use your physical card.