A virtual bank card can be purchased from a credit institution that distributes such products. After activation, the virtual card can be used to pay for goods and services on the Internet.
Virtual bank cards are currently distributed by most credit institutions. Such a product does not have a physical medium and is actually expressed in the necessary data: number, expiration date, CVC2 or CVV2 code, which can be transmitted to the client in various ways. To purchase this product, you should contact a branch of your own bank, since a virtual card is usually opened to those customers who already have a regular card of a certain category. If the client has additional services connected, then often a virtual card can be purchased independently. For example, Sberbank provides individuals with a similar opportunity, clients of this credit institution can create virtual cards in the Internet bank "Sberbank Online". Other banks also use a variety of methods to distribute these products.
How is the virtual card transferred?
Since the virtual card does not have a physical medium, its transfer is carried out in the form of data that is necessary for further settlements on the Internet using it. So, immediately after the purchase, the client receives the card number and its validity period. This data can be transmitted in clear text, however, the CVC2 or CVV2 codes are usually sent in a separate message to the phone to maintain confidentiality. The purpose of purchasing a virtual card is to securely carry out payments on the Internet, reduce the risks that accompany the use of a conventional card product for such payments.
How to use a virtual card?
Using a virtual bank card is also not very difficult. It is enough to go to the website of the seller or service provider, select the appropriate payment method for the product of interest. After that, the data of the virtual card is entered, which must be pre-replenished with the required amount. The process of entering data does not differ from paying with a regular card, therefore, it is enough to enter the previously received card product number, holder's name, expiration date, CVC2 or CVV2 code. After confirming the transaction, the payment will be made by the bank in the usual manner, and the corresponding amount will be debited from the card account. Some banks allow you to use virtual cards for free, while others will require you to pay a symbolic amount for an annual service.
