What is a CVV (Card Verification Value)?

What is a CVV (Card Verification Value)?

A CVV or CVC (Card Verification Code) is an anti-fraud measure credit card companies worldwide use. It’s a three or four-digit number located on the back of most credit cards.

Is the card verification value the same as the security code?

A CVV number is also known as a card security code (CSC), a Card identification number (CID), and a Card verification code (CVC).

Where to find your card’s CVV code

The CVV number’s placement depends on the card network. On Visa, Mastercard, and Discover cards, the CVV is a three-digit number that appears on the back of the card next to the signature box. American Express cards use four-digit CVV numbers, which are located on the front of the card.

Why is a CVV number important and how can it protect you?

A CVV number is a layer of protection that prevents credit card fraud. Using a CVV, merchants can confirm that the cardholder is the person using the card.
The Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council states that CVV numbers are sensitive data and merchants must protect the information and delete the CVV number after the purchase goes through.

How are CVVs assigned?

CVV numbers are issued based on several factors such as the cardholder’s:

• Account number
• Expiration date
• Card network

What’s the difference between a CVV and a PIN?

A CVV and PIN are not the same. The CVV verifies the cardholder’s identity and makes online or phone purchases more secure. A PIN helps verify the individual’s identity when they use a debit card at an ATM or for in-person purchases. Credit cards may also issue PINs for cash advances.

How to protect your card verification value

Even though data breaches are a major concern, the risk of hackers stealing CVV numbers is low as PCI standards specify that merchants should not store CVVs after transactions are complete.
Merchants can even process recurring payments without a CVV once they obtain authorization from the user.
In general, however, consumers should know how to protect their card verification value and other information:

• Don’t save personal information on retailer websites: While convenient, it’s easier for fraudsters to get ahold of your information this way.
• Only shop on secure websites: Check that the website you’re shopping on has an “s” following the http (https://). The “s” stands for secure and signals that data is encrypted.
• Don’t click the links in potential spam emails. Avoid responding to emails that prompt you to enter your credit card information after clicking on a link. Only share your credit card information with trusted banks or retailers.