card verification value (credit card) (CVV)

The Card Verification Value (CVV) is a verification number used in credit cards toverify the identity of the holder. The Card Verification Value (CVV) is also known as the Card Validation Code (CVC) or the Card Security Code ( CSC).

The CVV verification number is used for the security ofInternet transactions and is intended to prevent possible fraud as far as possible. When making a transaction, the cardholder must provide the card number, the validity period and the card verification number.

Credit card back with card verification number (CVV), Photo: help.gopay.com

For credit cards, the CVV value consists of two codes: One code is stored on the magnetic strip on the back of the card and can be read when the magnetic strip is swiped through a card reader. The second code is a three- or four- digit number printed in a small box on the back of some credit cards, near the signature area. However, it can also be located on the front of the card, as is the case with American Express. The combination of both code parts is sufficiently effective against fraud attempts.