Manually requesting a Private Payments number
If you weren't able to install the Private Payments software, you'll need to manually request a Private Payments number when you need it.
To do so, simply point your browser to the Private Payments page on the American Express Web site and click the Request New Number link. When you do, you'll see the Private Payments login dialog box and will need to sign in using your account name and password. You'll then be issued a Private Payments number and an expiration date, which you can copy and paste into the appropriate boxes on the Merchant's check out page.
Once you enter your Private Payments number and expiration date, you simply complete the transaction as you normally would. If you want to make an additional transaction, you'll need to get another Private Payments number.
Greg Shultz is a Senior Editor with Element K Journals. He writes the monthly tips and techniques journals, Inside Microsoft Windows 98 and Windows Professional.
