Is Privacy.com Safe?

If you use or plan to use Privacy.com, you need to know: Is Privacy.com safe? 

Below, we explain whether Privacy.com is: 

• Safe to use. 
• Good for privacy. 

We also give some steps you can take to improve both your safety and privacy when using this online service. 

What Is Privacy.com?

Privacy.com is a service that enables users to create virtual debit cards for online purchases. These virtual cards can be used in place of debit or credit card numbers, providing an extra layer of security and privacy.

By using virtual cards, users can prevent their actual card numbers from being exposed during online transactions, reducing the risk of fraud and unauthorized charges. Each virtual card can be locked to a specific merchant, so it can’t be used elsewhere, even if the card number is stolen.

Along with added security, Privacy.com users can set spending limits on their virtual cards so they don’t exceed their budget or get overcharged by merchants. Privacy.com simplifies the process of managing multiple subscriptions and online purchases by allowing users to create, pause, or close virtual cards easily.

Is Privacy.com Safe?

Yes, Privacy.com is considered a safe and secure service for managing online transactions. 

Since users utilize virtual cards while using the service, their real debit or credit card numbers (and other personal details) are never exposed during transactions. In addition, the platform uses strong encryption to protect user data, both in transit and at rest.

Privacy.com complies with relevant financial regulations and partners with FDIC-insured banks to issue virtual cards, ensuring that it meets industry standards for security and financial transactions. This effectively means that Privacy.com is as secure as any bank. 

In its privacy policy, Privacy.com says it protects data using technologies like firewalls, data encryption, and server authentication. Staff and third parties hired to provide support services must observe Privacy.com privacy standards. 

Privacy.com has a dedicated security page where it explains the kinds of security measures it takes.

That said, some users have reported that their virtual card numbers were stolen and used at other merchants. In addition, there was an attack against Privacy.com users in 2020 that resulted in unauthorized transactions. 

Is Privacy.com Private?

Depends on your definition of “private.”

As its name implies and its business model suggests, Privacy.com emphasizes user privacy. It allows users to buy products and services without giving the vendor a real name, address, or credit card number. Vendors can’t see your personal information, but of course, Privacy.com can. 

Sensitive data that passes through Privacy.com is fully encrypted with industry-standard TLS 1.2 and never sold to third parties, according to its website. Privacy.com also adheres to PCI DSS, a rigid set of requirements designed to prevent data breaches.

In its privacy policy, which is easy to read, Privacy.com states that it only uses the minimum amount of user data necessary to function properly and shares information under controlled circumstances only. Data collected by Privacy.com includes name, email address, phone number, birth date, government ID number, and bank information. 

Privacy.com is very clear about how long it retains user information after they close their Privacy.com account.  

Before making major changes to its privacy policy, Privacy.com says it will provide reasonable notice to users, including by email if they have provided one. 

Terms of Service; Didn’t Read, a project that rates internet services’ terms of service and privacy policies, gives Privacy.com a “Grade E.” Some of the issues flagged include Privacy.com keeping logs of user activity for an undefined period of time, collecting location data, and potentially keeping some personal data for business interests or legal obligations.

How to Improve Your Safety and Privacy on Privacy.com

Follow the below steps for a safer and more private experience on Privacy.com. 

• Use unique virtual cards for each merchant. Create a separate virtual card for each merchant you purchase from. This way, if one merchant’s data is compromised in a breach, the impact is limited to that card only.
• Lock your cards. Lock each virtual card to a specific merchant. This means the card can only be used with that merchant, providing an extra layer of security in the event that someone acquires the card numbers.
• Set tight spending limits. Set lower spending limits on your virtual cards. This not only helps manage your budget but also reduces the potential loss if a card is compromised.
• Regularly monitor transactions. Keep an eye on your transactions and set up real-time alerts. Promptly reviewing charges can help you quickly spot and respond to any unauthorized activity.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Activate 2FA on your Privacy.com account to add an extra layer of security. This makes it more difficult for someone to access your account even if they have your password.
• Use strong, unique passwords. Ensure your Privacy.com account password is strong and unique. Avoid reusing passwords from other sites to reduce the risk of cross-site breaches.
• Pause or close unused cards. If you no longer need a virtual card, pause or close it. This reduces the number of active cards that could potentially be misused.
• Verify communication. Be cautious of emails or messages that request personal information. Privacy.com will never ask for sensitive information via email.
• Check URLs. Ensure you are on the official Privacy.com website by verifying the URL before entering your credentials.
• Stay informed. Keep up to date with any changes to Privacy.com’s terms of service and privacy policies to understand how your data is managed and protected.