Working in collaboration with Google, American Express (Amex) is set to let its card members convert to and save virtual card numbers (VCN) when they use autofill on Google’s Chrome and Android services.
Virtual card numbers make shopping online safer and more secure by replacing the 15-digit physical card number with a virtual number, or token, which provides an extra layer of protection from potential fraud.
Virtual card numbers also automatically populate a dynamic four-digit security code (CID), protecting users from encountering potential fraud at the checkout.
“We are thrilled to bring this new checkout experience with Google to our Card Members to help further secure your payments online and create a convenient online shopping experience,” said Lisa Yokoyama, head of product at Amex Digital Labs.
“With more consumers shopping online than ever before, we’re proud to innovate new digital experiences that meet our card members both where they are and where they’re going.”
Card members checking out with an eligible card using autofill on Chrome and Android will now be prompted to create a virtual card number. Once a virtual card number is created, the card member will see the option to pay for their next transaction using their virtual card number whenever they use autofill at checkout again.
During the checkout process, American Express will also generate a dynamic CID that will allow card members to skip the step of having to enter in the four digits displayed on the front of their card. Physical card numbers are not shared with merchants, adding an extra layer of card security.
“This is a landmark step in bringing the security of virtual cards to as many consumers as possible,” added Arnold Goldberg, vice president and general manager of payments at Google.
“Shoppers using Autofill on Chrome and Android can enjoy a fast checkout experience when shopping online while having the peace of mind knowing that their payment information is protected.”
American Express card members in the US will be able to enrol in Google’s virtual card number experience this summer.
