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The 9 best Credit Cards with Virtual Credit Card Numbers
- Sam Freidman
- 1 day ago
- 19 min read
"Virtual Credit Card Numbers are revolutionizing online shopping security in 2025"
Major issuers like American Express, Chase, Capital One, and Citi now offer virtual card technology. For instance, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card provides 60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months, while the Citi Double Cash Card offers an unlimited 2% cash back with a $200 welcome bonus after spending $1,500 in the first 6 months. Additionally, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card tempts travelers with 75,000 bonus miles and access to over 1,300 airport lounges.
Beyond rewards, these virtual credit card numbers deliver practical security benefits. You can set spending limits, customize expiration dates, and cancel a virtual card without affecting your physical one if a merchant experiences a data breach. Furthermore, instant approval credit cards with virtual numbers allow you to start using your card immediately after approval, adding convenience to security.
We've researched the most secure options available today to help you find the perfect balance of protection, rewards, and usability. From the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express with its impressive 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets to versatile options that integrate with digital wallets, our guide covers everything you need to know about who offers virtual credit cards in today's market.
The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express stands out as a top contender for shoppers seeking both robust cash-back rewards and virtual card security. This card combines exceptional everyday earning potential with modern digital protection features, making it ideal for families and regular supermarket shoppers.
Blue Cash Preferred key features
The Blue Cash Preferred excels with its impressive rewards structure:
6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year, then 1%)
6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions (unlimited)
3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis, rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, busses)
1% cash back on all other purchases
Beyond its rewards program, cardholders receive a welcome offer of $300 back as a statement credit after spending $3,000 in purchases within the first 6 months. Another notable perk includes the Disney Bundle Credit — $7 monthly statement credit ($84 annually) when you spend $9.99+ each month on an eligible auto-renewing Disney Bundle subscription.
Blue Cash Preferred virtual card access
Regarding virtual card functionality, the Blue Cash Preferred offers several secure options. Cardholders can enroll for virtual card numbers by adding the card to their Google account. Once enrolled, you can generate virtual card numbers when:
Shopping online using Google Chrome browser
Making purchases on an Android mobile device
Using supported Android apps
To access this feature, log in to your American Express account, select "Account Services," then "Card Management," and "Manage Digital Wallets & Payment Features." From there, select "Add Card to Google Pay" and follow the on-screen prompts.
Although the card doesn't offer traditional temporary card numbers, eligible cardholders can instantly get their real card number to use online or in a digital wallet immediately after approval, without waiting for the physical card.
Blue Cash Preferred security benefits
The card comes with comprehensive protection features that enhance online shopping security:
Purchase protection: Coverage for items stolen or damaged within 90 days of purchase, up to $1,000 per occurrence and $50,000 per card account annually
Return protection: Refunds for eligible purchases under $300 when merchants don't accept returns (up to $1,000 per year)
Extended warranty: Additional year of coverage on items with existing warranties of up to five years
Car rental loss and damage insurance: Secondary coverage for rental vehicles
Moreover, the Blue Cash Preferred features Pay It® Plan It® options, allowing you to quickly pay for small purchases throughout the month or split larger purchases into monthly installments with fixed fees.
Blue Cash Preferred pricing
The Blue Cash Preferred comes with straightforward pricing:
Annual fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95
Intro APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from account opening
Regular APR: Variable 20.24% - 29.24% APR after the introductory period
Foreign transaction fee: 2.7%
Despite the annual fee, the card's value is easy to recoup. Spending just $31 weekly at U.S. supermarkets generates enough cash back to offset the fee. With $100 weekly grocery spending, you'd come out ahead by $217 annually — before counting rewards from other categories.
For security-conscious shoppers who frequent supermarkets and use streaming services, the Blue Cash Preferred delivers exceptional value alongside its virtual card technology and comprehensive purchase protections.
For those seeking a streamlined cash back experience with virtual card security, the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card offers a compelling combination of simplicity and protection. Unlike cards with rotating categories, this option delivers consistent rewards alongside robust digital security features.
Wells Fargo Active Cash key features
The Active Cash Card stands out with its straightforward rewards structure:
Unlimited 2% cash rewards on all purchases with no categories to track
$200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in the first 3 months
$0 annual fee
Redemption options provide flexibility, allowing you to cash out rewards through:
Statement credits (minimum $1)
Direct deposit into Wells Fargo accounts (minimum $25)
ATM withdrawals in $20 increments using a Wells Fargo ATM or debit card
Physical and electronic gift cards
Wells Fargo Active Cash virtual card access
Accessing virtual card numbers with the Active Cash Card requires enrolling in a digital wallet. To set this up:
Log in to your account on the Wells Fargo mobile app
Select "Menu" in the bottom right corner
Choose "Cards," then "Digital Wallet"
Tap "Apple Pay," "Google Pay," or "Samsung Pay"
Add your Active Cash Card to your preferred wallet
Once configured, the app generates a virtual card number whenever you make purchases through these digital wallets. This creates an added security layer, as merchants never see your actual card details.
Wells Fargo Active Cash security benefits
Beyond virtual card protection, the Active Cash Card includes notable security features:
Cell phone protection covers up to $600 per claim against damage or theft when you pay your monthly phone bill with the card. This benefit is subject to a $25 deductible and limited to two claims per year.
Additional protections include auto rental collision damage waiver, travel and emergency assistance services, and zero liability protection that ensures you won't be responsible for unauthorized transactions.
Wells Fargo Active Cash pricing
The card offers attractive terms for new cardholders:
Introductory APR: 0% for 12 months on both purchases and qualifying balance transfers
Standard APR: Variable 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% based on creditworthiness
Balance transfer fee: 3% ($5 minimum) for the first 120 days, then up to 5%
Foreign transaction fee: 3%
In fact, some users report being able to add the card to Apple Pay immediately after approval, enabling instant use even before receiving the physical card. This makes it particularly valuable for those needing immediate access to credit for planned purchases.
With its combination of straightforward rewards, digital wallet integration, and robust security features, the Active Cash Card represents a strong contender among credit cards offering virtual number capabilities.
Foodies and travelers seeking both premium rewards and secure online shopping will find the American Express Gold Card offers an appetizing mix of dining perks and virtual card protection.
Amex Gold key features
The American Express Gold Card rewards culinary enthusiasts with:
4X Membership Rewards points at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 in purchases per year)
4X points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year)
3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com
Initially offering 60,000 points, the welcome bonus has increased to 100,000 Membership Rewards Points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months. Plus, cardholders receive over $500 in annual credits, including $120 Uber Cash, $84 Dunkin' credit, $100 Resy credit, and $120 dining credit.
Amex Gold virtual card access
Unlike some competitors, Amex doesn't offer traditional temporary card numbers. Rather, cardholders can access virtual card numbers through Google Chrome. To enroll:
Sign into your Google account in Chrome
Select payment settings and click the three dots for your card
Select "add or turn on virtual card"
Subsequently, whenever making purchases through Chrome, select your virtual card from the payment options dropdown. The system automatically populates your information, requiring a one-time verification code to confirm your identity.
Amex Gold security benefits
Apart from virtual card protection, the Gold Card includes comprehensive shopping protections:
Purchase protection against damage or theft within 90 days
Extended warranty adding up to one year to manufacturers' warranties
Baggage insurance plan when traveling
Trip delay insurance for delays exceeding 12 hours
The card also offers car rental loss and damage insurance and the Global Assist Hotline for emergencies when traveling more than 100 miles from home.
Amex Gold pricing
The annual fee is $325, charged on your card anniversary date each year. First of all, cardholders can add up to five additional Gold Cards with no annual fee. In addition to this, the accumulated benefits ($424+ in annual credits) effectively offset the annual fee, providing a net positive value for cardholders who fully utilize these perks.
Travel enthusiasts looking for premium benefits might find the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card an attractive option, even though its virtual number capabilities differ from other cards in this list.
Chase Sapphire Preferred key features
The Chase Sapphire Preferred delivers impressive travel-focused rewards:
60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months from account opening
5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel (excluding hotel purchases that qualify for the $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit)
3X points on dining, including eligible delivery services
3X points on select streaming services and online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs)
2X points on other travel purchases
1X points on all other purchases
Your points increase in value by 25% when redeemed through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal, making each point worth 1.25 cents instead of the standard penny. Additionally, each account anniversary year, you'll earn a 10% bonus on your total purchases from the previous year.
Chase Sapphire Preferred virtual card access
Unlike some competitors, Chase does not currently offer native virtual credit card numbers. However, cardholders can still protect their transactions through alternative methods:
Chase Sapphire Preferred can be integrated with Click to Pay, a service launched by major card networks that automatically generates virtual card numbers paired with unique cryptograms for each transaction. This system ensures that even if your virtual information is compromised, the transaction will be declined without the matching cryptogram.
Furthermore, you can add your card to digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. Simply navigate to "Account Services" in the Chase mobile app, select "Digital Wallets," and choose your preferred wallet option.
Chase Sapphire Preferred security benefits
Despite lacking built-in virtual card numbers, the card offers robust security features:
Trip cancelation/interruption insurance: Reimbursement up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for qualifying reasons
Baggage delay insurance: Coverage for essential purchases if your bag is delayed
Primary rental car insurance: Comprehensive coverage when you decline the rental company's collision insurance
Purchase protection: Coverage for new purchases against damage or theft
Chase Sapphire Preferred pricing
The card's pricing structure is straightforward:
Annual fee: $95
Foreign transaction fees: None
Authorized user fee: None
Annual travel credit: $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit
Considering the hotel credit effectively reduces the annual fee to $45, the card delivers excellent value through its points system and travel protections. Consequently, even without dedicated virtual card numbers, the Chase Sapphire Preferred remains a top contender in the secure credit card category through its alternative digital security options and comprehensive travel benefits.
The Discover it Cash Back shines through its unique cashback matching program, doubling all rewards earned during your first year regardless of how much you accumulate.
Discover it Cash Back key features
The card offers a rotating rewards structure designed to maximize earnings:
5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter (up to quarterly maximum when activated)
1% cash back on all other purchases automatically
Unlimited Cashback Match at the end of your first year—turning $150 cash back into $300 with no minimum spending or maximum rewards cap
5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (special offer)
Besides the standard rewards, cardholders occasionally receive targeted promotions, such as a $20 statement credit after making $200 in virtual card purchases on Google Chrome.
Discover it Cash Back virtual card access
Applicants can receive approval in as little as 60 seconds, plus eligible new cardholders receive a virtual card number immediately for use online or in digital wallets before the physical card arrives.
In relation to virtual card functionality, Discover provides virtual card numbers through Google Chrome on both desktop and mobile devices. These numbers work seamlessly for online purchases and within Android apps where available. The process requires no activation for eligible purchases made through Chrome or Android apps.
Discover it Cash Back security benefits
Security features include:
$0 Fraud Liability Guarantee—you're never responsible for unauthorized purchases
Social Security Number Alerts that monitor thousands of Dark Web sites
Online Privacy Protection that helps remove personal information from select people-search websites that could sell your data
Freeze it feature allowing you to instantly prevent new purchases, cash advances, and balance transfers if your card is misplaced
Discover it Cash Back pricing
The card offers consumer-friendly terms:
Annual fee: None
Intro purchase APR: 0% for 15 months from account opening
Intro balance transfer APR: 0% for 15 months from date of first transfer (for transfers posted by August 10, 2025)
Standard purchase APR: Variable 18.24% to 27.24% based on creditworthiness
Balance transfer fee: 3% intro fee on balances transferred by August 10, 2025; up to 5% fee thereafter
Cash advance fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount, whichever is greater
The Citi Double Cash Card stands out primarily for its innovative two-tier rewards structure, making it an excellent choice for consumers seeking straightforward cash back paired with robust virtual card protection.
Citi Double Cash key features
The Citi Double Cash Card offers a refreshingly simple rewards program:
2% cash back on all purchases: 1% when you make a purchase and an additional 1% when you pay it off
$200 cash back welcome bonus after spending $1,500 in the first 6 months of account opening (fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou Points)
5% total cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through the Citi Travel portal (special offer through December 31, 2025)
What sets this card apart is its flexibility—rewards are unlimited with no category restrictions or activation requirements. Actually, these rewards come as ThankYou Points that can be redeemed for statement credits, direct deposits, checks, gift cards, or transferred to travel partners including JetBlue, Wyndham, and Choice Privileges.
Citi Double Cash virtual card access
The virtual card functionality is straightforward yet powerful. Cardholders can enroll in Virtual Account Numbers directly through Citi's website. Once enrolled:
You'll receive randomly generated temporary card numbers to use when shopping online or by mail order
All purchases made with these virtual numbers appear on your monthly statement alongside regular transactions
Each statement includes the specific Virtual Account Number used for each transaction
To access this feature, look for the "Enroll in/Get" option in the Virtual Account Numbers section after logging into your account.
Citi Double Cash security benefits
Beyond virtual numbers, the card includes notable security protections:
24-hour fraud protection with alerts for unusual account activity
$0 liability on unauthorized charges, ensuring complete protection against fraud
Lost Wallet Service that replaces missing cards within 24 hours in most cases
Citi Double Cash pricing
The card offers competitive terms that enhance its value:
Annual fee: $0
Intro APR: 0% for 18 months on balance transfers (transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening)
Standard APR: Variable 18.24% - 28.24% based on creditworthiness
Balance transfer fee: 3% ($5 minimum) for transfers completed within the first 4 months; 5% ($5 minimum) thereafter
Foreign transaction fee: 3%
With its combination of straightforward rewards, accessible virtual card functionality, and solid security features, the Citi Double Cash Card represents an excellent option for those seeking both everyday value and enhanced online shopping protection.
Premium travelers seeking elite rewards alongside virtual card security will find the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers impressive value despite its substantial annual fee.
Capital One Venture X key features
This premium travel card delivers a rewards structure that appeals to frequent travelers:
75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 within first 3 months from account opening (equal to $750 toward travel)
10,000 anniversary bonus miles annually (worth $100 toward travel), starting on first anniversary
10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
2X miles on all other purchases
Plus, cardholders receive a $300 annual travel credit for bookings made through Capital One Travel and up to $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®. The complimentary access to Capital One Lounges and over 1,300 Priority Pass lounges worldwide enhances the travel experience significantly.
Capital One Venture X virtual card access
Creating virtual card numbers with Capital One is remarkably straightforward. Cardholders can generate virtual credit card numbers through several methods:
First, access through the Capital One Mobile app by logging into your account and selecting "Manage Virtual Cards" under the "I Want To" menu. This allows you to create new virtual numbers without having your physical card on hand.
Alternatively, use the Capital One Eno browser extension, which generates unique virtual card numbers for online shopping sites. These virtual numbers function as substitutes for your actual credit card number, adding an extra security layer when shopping online.
Capital One Venture X security benefits
Beyond virtual cards, this card includes impressive security features. Virtual card numbers allow you to shop online without exposing your actual card information. Additionally, you can lock or unlock virtual cards at any time without affecting your ability to make purchases with your physical card.
Virtual cards created with the Eno extension can be customized with specific expiration dates. Furthermore, the card provides cell phone protection—simply pay your phone bill with your Venture X to receive coverage up to $800 if your phone is damaged or stolen.
Capital One Venture X pricing
The card carries a $395 annual fee, yet offers benefits that readily offset this cost:
The $300 annual travel credit combined with the 10,000 anniversary miles (worth $100) essentially reduces the net annual fee to negative $5. After factoring in premium lounge access, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, and cell phone protection, the card provides substantial value for frequent travelers.
With no foreign transaction fees and the ability to transfer miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs, the Venture X represents a compelling option for security-conscious travelers seeking premium benefits.
Designed for food enthusiasts and entertainment lovers, the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card combines robust rewards with virtual card security, all without asking for an annual fee.
Capital One Savor key features
The Capital One Savor rewards program focuses primarily on everyday enjoyment:
3% cash back on dining (restaurants, cafes, bars, lounges, fast-food chains, bakeries)
3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target)
3% cash back on entertainment (movie theaters, concerts, sporting events, amusement parks)
3% cash back on popular streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+)
5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
1% cash back on all other purchases
First-time cardholders earn a $200 cash bonus after spending just $500 within the first 3 months from account opening. Furthermore, you'll gain access to Capital One Dining for exclusive restaurant reservations at top venues.
Capital One Savor virtual card access
Accessing virtual card numbers happens through multiple avenues. Primarily, you can generate these secure numbers via:
Eno browser extension - After downloading the extension and signing in with your Capital One credentials, Eno creates unique merchant-specific virtual cards during checkout
Capital One Mobile app - Sign in, tap "I Want To," select "Manage Virtual Cards," and access your virtual card details
Google Pay - Add your Savor card to Google Pay to utilize virtual cards when checking out through Chrome or Android apps
Each method offers unique advantages. For instance, virtual cards created through Eno are merchant-specific, meaning they can only be used at one retailer. Conversely, the virtual card accessed through the mobile app works across multiple online stores.
Capital One Savor security benefits
Virtual card technology provides exceptional security since your actual card number remains hidden during transactions. Indeed, if your physical card is lost or stolen, you can still use existing virtual cards for online purchases.
Additionally, virtual cards work seamlessly with subscriptions. Simply use your virtual card number when setting up recurring charges to maintain uninterrupted access to streaming services.
Other security features include:
$0 fraud liability protection against unauthorized charges
Card Lock feature in the Capital One Mobile app
Security alerts for potentially suspicious transactions
Capital One Savor pricing
The Capital One Savor comes with consumer-friendly terms:
Annual fee: $0
Intro APR: 0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
Standard APR: 19.24% - 29.24% variable APR after the introductory period
Foreign transaction fees: None
Given the generous rewards structure and lack of annual fee, the Savor card delivers exceptional value for everyday spenders who frequently dine out or enjoy entertainment.
Renters looking for a way to earn rewards on their largest monthly expense will find the Bilt Mastercard uniquely positioned in the credit card marketplace as the only option that allows you to earn points on rent without transaction fees.
Bilt Mastercard key features
The Bilt Mastercard offers a targeted rewards structure for modern renters:
1X points on rent payments with no transaction fees (up to 100,000 points per calendar year)
3X points on dining purchases
2X points on travel booked directly with airlines, hotels, car rental agencies, or cruise lines
5X points on Lyft rides after linking accounts
1X points on all other purchases
Notably, Bilt's "Rent Day" promotion on the first of each month doubles your earning potential—6X on dining, 4X on travel, and 2X on other purchases (excluding rent) up to 1,000 bonus points.
To qualify for rewards, you must make at least five transactions per statement period. First of all, if you don't meet this requirement, you'll only earn a flat 250 points when paying rent through the Bilt app.
Bilt Mastercard virtual card access
Upon approval, cardholders receive a digital Bilt Mastercard instantly through the Bilt app. This virtual card can immediately be added to digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay for use both in stores and online:
Tap the Wallet tab in the app
Select "Add to Google Wallet" or "Apple Pay"
Follow the on-screen instructions
This immediate access means you can start using your card before the physical version arrives, effectively functioning as an instant approval credit card with virtual number capabilities.
Bilt Mastercard security benefits
The card includes several premium security features usually reserved for cards with annual fees:
Primary auto rental collision damage waiver when you pay for rentals with your card (except for New York residents who receive secondary coverage)
Trip cancelation/interruption protection up to $5,000 for covered reasons
Trip delay reimbursement up to $200 per day when trips are delayed over six hours
Cell phone protection up to $800 per claim (with $25 deductible) when you pay your monthly phone bill with the card
Purchase security protection for items damaged or stolen within 90 days
Bilt Mastercard pricing
The pricing structure is straightforward:
Annual fee: $0
Foreign transaction fee: $0
APR: See terms (variable based on creditworthiness)
Along with lacking an annual fee, the card doesn't charge the transaction fees that typically accompany rent payments on other cards—often around 3%. For a $2,000 monthly rent payment, this translates to approximately $60 in savings each month while still earning rewards points.
The Citi Custom Cash Card stands apart with its automatic rewards adjustment system that adapts to your spending habits each billing cycle, offering flexibility without requiring manual category activation.
Citi Custom Cash key features
The Citi Custom Cash Card features a rewards structure that automatically adjusts to your spending patterns:
5% cash back on your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to $500 spent
1% cash back on all other purchases
$200 cash back welcome bonus after spending $1,500 in the first 6 months of account opening
Additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through the Citi Travel portal (special offer through 6/30/2026)
Eligible 5% categories include restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, select travel, select transit, select streaming services, drugstores, home improvement stores, fitness clubs, and live entertainment. Rewards are earned as ThankYou Points, which can be redeemed for cash back, statement credits, gift cards, or travel.
Citi Custom Cash virtual card access
The card offers Virtual Account Numbers (VAN) for enhanced online shopping security. To access this feature:
Log in to your Citi account through the virtual account numbers page
Click "Enroll In/Get" to begin using Virtual Account Numbers
Download the Citibank browser extension or use the web-based version
Generate a 16-digit virtual card number with its own expiration date and security code
Virtual numbers appear on your monthly statement alongside your other purchases, showing which specific virtual number was used for each transaction. Eligible users can create unlimited virtual card numbers and set daily spending limits for each one.
Citi Custom Cash security benefits
Security features include:
$0 liability on unauthorized charges
Fraud Early Warning that monitors your account for suspicious activity
Citi Quick Lock to instantly block new charges if your card is misplaced
Free FICO Score access through the Citi Mobile App and Citi Online
Virtual card numbers provide additional protection as the randomly generated numbers shield your actual card information during online transactions.
Citi Custom Cash pricing
The card offers consumer-friendly terms:
Annual fee: $0
Intro APR: 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months
Standard APR: Variable 18.24%-28.24% after the introductory period
Balance transfer fee: $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
Foreign transaction fee: 3%
Considering its adaptive rewards structure and no annual fee, the Citi Custom Cash Card delivers exceptional value for everyday spending while simultaneously providing enhanced online shopping security.
Comparison Table
Card Name | Welcome Bonus | Key Rewards | Virtual Card Access | Annual Fee | Notable Security Features |
$300 back after $3,000 spend in 6 months | 6% at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000/year), 6% on streaming, 3% on transit/gas | Google Chrome browser, Android devices | $0 first year, then $95 | Purchase protection, Return protection, Extended warranty | |
$200 after $500 spend in 3 months | Unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases | Digital wallet integration (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay) | $0 | Cell phone protection, Zero liability protection | |
60,000 points after $5,000 spend in 3 months | 5X on Chase Travel, 3X on dining/streaming/online groceries | Click to Pay service, Digital wallets | $95 | Trip cancelation insurance, Primary rental car coverage | |
$200 after $1,500 spend in 6 months | 2% on all purchases (1% when you buy + 1% when you pay) | Virtual Account Numbers through website | $0 | 24-hour fraud protection, $0 liability on unauthorized charges | |
75,000 miles after $4,000 spend in 3 months | 10X on hotels/cars through Capital One Travel, 5X on flights | Eno browser extension, Mobile app | $395 | Virtual card customization, Cell phone protection | |
100,000 points after $6,000 spend in 6 months | 4X at restaurants worldwide, 4X at U.S. supermarkets | Google Chrome integration | $325 | Purchase protection, Extended warranty | |
$200 after $500 spend in 3 months | 3% on dining/grocery/entertainment/streaming, 8% on Capital One Entertainment | Eno browser extension, Mobile app | $0 | $0 fraud liability, Card Lock feature | |
N/A | 1X on rent payments, 3X on dining, 2X on travel | Digital wallet integration | $0 | Cell phone protection, Purchase security | |
Cashback Match for first year | 5% cash back in rotating quarterly categories | Google Chrome integration | $0 | $0 Fraud Liability, Social Security Number monitoring |
Conclusion
Virtual credit cards have undoubtedly transformed online shopping security in 2025. Throughout this guide, we've explored nine exceptional cards that balance robust rewards with cutting-edge protection features. Although the technology behind virtual numbers varies between issuers, the core benefit remains consistent—creating a secure barrier between your actual account information and potential fraudsters.
When selecting your ideal card, consider your specific spending habits first and foremost. For grocery shoppers, the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express offers unmatched 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets. Travel enthusiasts might prefer the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card with its premium lounge access and travel credits. Meanwhile, renters should certainly explore the Bilt Mastercard—the only option allowing fee-free points on rent payments.
Security features differ significantly between cards as well. Some, like the Citi Double Cash Card, offer dedicated Virtual Account Numbers that mask your actual card details. Others, such as the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card, provide protection through digital wallet integration. Additionally, many cards include extended warranties, purchase protection, and cell phone coverage that enhance your overall security profile.
The annual fee should factor into your decision too. Cards like the Discover it Cash Back and Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card deliver excellent value with no annual fees. Alternatively, premium options with higher fees often offset this cost through substantial credits and perks.
Above all, remember that virtual card security represents just one aspect of modern credit card protection. The ideal card combines this technology with traditional security features, valuable rewards, and terms that align with your financial habits. By carefully weighing these factors against your personal needs, you'll find the perfect balance of protection and rewards for your digital shopping experience.
FAQs
Q1. What are virtual credit card numbers and how do they work?
Virtual credit card numbers are randomly generated temporary numbers linked to your actual credit card account. They allow you to make online purchases without revealing your real card details, adding an extra layer of security against fraud.
Q2. Which credit cards offer the best rewards for everyday spending?
Cards like the Citi Double Cash and Capital One Savor offer strong rewards on everyday purchases. The Citi Double Cash provides 2% cash back on all purchases, while the Capital One Savor offers 3% back on dining, groceries, and entertainment.
Q3. Are there credit cards that don't charge annual fees but still offer virtual number protection?
Yes, several cards like the Wells Fargo Active Cash, Capital One Savor, and Discover it Cash Back offer virtual card protection without charging an annual fee. These cards also provide competitive rewards programs.
Q4. How do premium travel cards with virtual number capabilities compare to no-fee options?
Premium travel cards like the Capital One Venture X offer extensive perks such as lounge access and travel credits, which can offset their annual fees. No-fee cards may have fewer luxury benefits but still provide solid rewards and virtual number protection for everyday use.
Q5. Can I use virtual credit card numbers for recurring payments or subscriptions?
Yes, many virtual credit card systems allow you to create long-term virtual numbers for recurring payments. This feature is particularly useful for managing subscriptions while maintaining the security benefits of virtual numbers.
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