How to create a one-time use credit card number

After reading our recent post about how cashing a Snuggie rebate check could cost you $150, a reader e-mailed to ask for clarification on my advice for using a one-time credit card number to avoid recurring and other fraudulent charges.

Adam writes, "I contacted my credit card company, inquiring about doing this (NOT to buy a Snuggie ha ha) and they had absolutely NO clue what I was talking about. Could you please provide any additional information, such as, if only specific cards offer this or more detailed information about the 'service'."

While I was surprised that his company didn't have a clue, it wasn't a shock that they don't offer a One Time Use credit card number since the service is, as of now, limited to several banks and card issuers. According to The Finance Buff Web site, you can get a one time use credit card number from Citibank, Bank of America or Discover.