A new credit card with a built in display is being tested by Visa with the aim of combating online credit card fraud. The Emue card generates and displays a unique code every time it is used not dissimilar from the current chip and pin method being used currently.

Michelle Whiteman, a spokesperson for Apacs, said there were a number of problems in tackling CNP fraud. "Firstly, you aren't able to check the card's physical security measures, such as the hologram or signature.

"Then, at present, there is no form of chip and pin security. And finally, because of the anonymous nature of internet transactions, there fraudsters have a much lower chance of getting caught, which probably encourages some people who might otherwise not commit a crime," she said.

This new technology comes along at a time where figures from 2008 show that CNP fraud accounted for more than £328.4 million pounds a rise of 13 percent from 2007.