The other day I got a letter in the mail from one of my Credit Card companies telling me that my current credit card had been cancelled “for my own protection” and that a new card was on its way.  Apparently, it was a precautionary procedure the credit card company was taking due to a recent data breach at a major retailer.  Unfortunately, we are starting to hear more and more stories of credit card theft. 

With online shopping so easy and convenient now (did you know you can order pizza online???) a lot of people are getting hesitant to make purchases online for fear of being another victim of fraud.  Luckily most major credit card companies have found a way to help ease that fear  - if nothing else make it much more difficult for your data  to be comprised  - by allowing card holders to use a service called Virtual Account Numbers.  This is basically a one time virtual number generated by your credit card company to disguise your real card number to online merchants.   I have used this service on numerous occasions and have to say that it does give me a better sense of security, especially when dealing with a new merchant online.  Most major Credit Card companies are now offering this service free to card holders and it’s very easy to use.  Certainly a lot easier than dealing with identity theft!

If you haven’t already done so, check with your Credit Card companies and see if this is something they offer.  Then go shopping – virtually worry free!