What is Your 3-Digit Credit Card Security Code (CVV)?
Your 3-digit code is a crucial security feature commonly found on the back of your credit card. This unique number helps protect your financial information during transactions where your card isn't physically present, such as online purchases or phone orders. It serves as a verification measure to ensure that the person making the purchase is the legitimate cardholder.
Understanding Your 3-Digit Security Code
This code goes by several names, but its purpose remains consistent: to verify your card's authenticity. For your safety and security, major card networks like Visa, Mastercard, and Discover utilize this type of code.
Here are some common terms used to refer to this security feature:
| Common Name | Abbreviation |
|---|---|
| Card Verification Value | CVV |
| Card Verification Code | CVC |
| Card Identification Number | CID |
| Security Pin Verification Number | SPVN |
Where to Locate Your 3-Digit Code
For Visa, Mastercard, and Discover credit cards, your 3-digit security code is consistently located in the same place:
- On the back of your credit card.
- It consists of the last three digits printed on or near the signature line.
This placement makes it easy to find when you need it for secure transactions, while keeping it separate from your main credit card number. Always keep this code confidential and never share it with unauthorized individuals.
The Importance of Your Security Code
The 3-digit security code adds an essential layer of protection against fraud. When you make a purchase online or over the phone, merchants often require this code in addition to your card number and expiration date. This ensures that the person using the card physically possesses it, making it significantly harder for fraudsters to use stolen card numbers without the actual card. Protecting this code is vital for maintaining the security of your account.
