This year’s Google I/O 2022 event was packed with new features from Android to AI but one of the biggest changes may be the addition of virtual credit cards to Google Chrome. Reportedly initially set to roll out in the US for Visa, American Express, and all Capital One cards, support for Mastercards more widely will arrive “later” in 2022. Support for cards in other regions will undoubtedly follow.
What are these virtual credit cards created in Google Chrome?
Now, as might be expected from the above-mentioned description, virtual credit cards in Chrome are fairly straightforward. The feature acts as an added layer of security for their transactions. With users being granted the ability to create a virtual set of credentials that’s separate from those on their credit cards. So, for example, if their card number is “1234 1234 1234 1234,” Chrome might create a card with the numbers 3421 “3421 3421 3421.”
The purpose of the virtualized credentials, of course, is to separate users’ credit cards stored in Chrome from retailers. Ultimately making numbers harder to steal. Especially since the cards will work differently depending on the card.
For example, for Capital One customers, a different number will be created for each site. While Visa and Amex will utilize a different CVV security code with each use. Making it harder than ever for numbers to be stolen and used elsewhere.
Moreover, the virtual cards will be fully supported by both Autofill in Chrome and by Google Pay. In the latter case, via the Pay website, each card is stored, complete with transaction history, once enrolled. With Chrome Autofill, available first on desktop platforms from ChromeOS to Mac and Linux, virtual cards will fill in automatically. Including the CVV code, which will fill in automatically even for changing codes.
Android and iOS will receive the features at a later, undisclosed date, based on the event announcement. Regardless of the platform, cards will show up in the autofill drop-down box just like other credit cards, once the feature rolls out.
2022-05-12 15:09:09