>This is a Windows (setup.exe) application that you install. The program generates a one-time use throw away MasterCard number. The functionality is similar to MBNA’s ShopSafe feature. I believe this is only available to USA customers at this time. If you are an eBay seller with the 1.0% to 1.5% cash back feature with current plastic debit card, using the Virtual debit card will not give you the cash back. This is not a new idea, but the fact that Paypal users tend to be online savvy, this is a great tool for additional security when shopping online. Click here for the FAQ on the Paypal Virtual Debit Card.

You can use PayPal Virtual Debit Card when making online purchases anywhere MasterCard is accepted. PayPal Virtual Debit Card generates a virtual card number each time you make a transaction online so you don’t have to use your personal debit or credit card number.

Also, Ina Steiner of AuctionBytes wrote an article about MBNA ShopSafe and CitiBank Virtual Account numbers: http://www.auctionbytes.com/cab/abu/y205/m02/abu0137/s02

Have you ever paused as you were entering your credit card number into a web-form on the Internet, wondering if the site would really keep your information secure? Whether you are making an online purchase or registering for a new service, you should always be careful!