Temporary Credit Cards for Online Shopping

Identity theft sweeps our nation like a nasty, disgusting bug. The internet is a breeding ground for identity theft. From email phishing to insecure shopping cards, your information is constantly in a scam artist's reach. That's why I recommend you take advantage of temporary credit cards that you can use solely for online shopping, separating your sensitive information and your normal bank account. By the time the scammer gets a hold of your temporary credit card information, the information would have already expired.

PayPal Virtual Mastercard
www.paypal.com �

PayPal has a Virtual Mastercard where you can use your PayPal funds to purchase temporary, disposable numbers. This feature is enabled by downloading the PayPal Debit Bar, which is basically a bar at the top of your screen where your numbers will generate. You can use the Virtual Mastercard on any website that accepts Mastercard. However, the downside is you can only spend $150 per day and only if the funds are available in your account. The Virtual Mastercard is free to use with your PayPal account.

Visa Gift Card
http://usa.visa.com�
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You can use the Visa Gift Card anywhere Visa is accepted. The spending amount is limited to how much you add to the card. You get the same protection as if it were a credit card. For instance, the card can be replaced if lost or stolen. Unfortunately, the only downside is the card is not re-loadable.

Mastercard Gift Card
www.thegiftcard.com�

The Mastercard Gift Card is accepted anywhere Mastercard is accepted. There is a minimum of $5 and a maximum of $2500 that you can add to the card. Volume discounts are available.

Discover Deskshop�
www2.discovercard.com��

Discover Deskshop� is a computer download that generates temporary credit card numbers for you to use at checkout, therefore hiding your real Discover credit card number. Discover Desktop� works with Windows or Mac. You can also use the temporary card number for phone orders. The expiration date is the same as your actual Discover card.