A CVV number is a security code used to verify that the card is in your possession when you make online or telephone purchases. The code is usually a three or four-digit number and is different from your credit card number.
What is the CVV used for?
The CVV is used to check that a transaction is legitimate. A transaction can only be processed if the CVV, long number, and expiration date match what's on record with the issuer. This helps to protect you from fraudsters who may have obtained your credit card number through illegal means.
What is the CVV format?
- American Express CVV format: 4 digits
- Mastercard CVV format: 3 digits
- Visa CVV format: 3 digits
When is the CVV required?
- In-store purchases. On the rare occasion that a store may need to process a transaction as "customer not present", they may require the card's CVV (not PIN).
- Online and telephone purchases. Most online checkout forms require the CVV, the long number, and the expiry date.
- Setting up a mobile wallet. The CVV is required when adding a card to Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and other mobile wallets.
Where is the CVV number on a credit card?
The CVV number is usually printed on the back of the credit card, next to the signature strip. Depending on the issuer, it may also be printed on the front of the card.
- American Express CVV location: Front of the card above the long number.
- Mastercard CVV location: Back of card beside the signature strip.
- Visa CVV location: Back of card beside the signature strip.
Is the CVV the same as the PIN?
No. The CVV number is printed on the credit card. The PIN is a different number used to verify a purchase at a physical checkout in-store. The CVV performs a similar function for remote transactions over the telephone or online. Do not enter or provide your PIN to anyone you do not trust.
Do debit cards have a CVV number?
Yes. Debit cards also have a CVV number. It serves the same purpose and has the same format and location on a debit card as on a credit card.
Is it safe to give someone my CVV number?
Yes, giving your CVV number to a merchant is safe when you are making a purchase.
Merchants need your CVV number to verify that the card is in your possession. When you provide your CVV number, the merchant verifies that the code matches the number on the card and that the card is active. This helps to protect you from fraudsters who may have obtained your credit card number through illegal means.
Is it safe to store my CVV and credit card details in a password manager?
It is safer to store your credit card details in a secure password manager — directly in the browser or in a dedicated app — than to store it in a file on your computer. If you store your credit card details in a password manager, use a strong password to secure your data.
Many password manager apps like 1Password and LastPass store user data in the cloud, i.e. on internet-connected servers. There is a possibility that their servers could be compromised.
Does the CVV prevent fraud?
If a fraudster has obtained your full card details, name, and address, they could make a purchase — usually for something online — with your card before you notice the transaction on your statement. However, you can report this to the issuer and they will not charge you for it.
Other names for the CVV
- CSV (Card Security Code)
- CCV (Card Code Verification)
- CID (Card Identification Number)
- CID2 (Card Identification Number 2)
- CVC (Card Validation Code)
- CVC2 (Card Validation Code 2)
- CVV2 (Card Verification Value 2)
