What Is the CVC on a Credit Card and Where Can I Find It?
Understand your credit card's CVC code. Learn its critical function in securing online payments and how to protect this vital security feature.
Credit cards are a regular part of daily financial life. The Card Verification Value or Code (CVC) is a small but important security feature. Understanding this code is fundamental for ensuring the safety of online and phone transactions.
What is the CVC and Where to Find It
The CVC (Card Verification Value or Code) is a security feature on credit and debit cards. It is also known by various names depending on the card network, such as CVV2, CVC2, or CID. The primary function of this code is to verify that the person using the card in a “card-not-present” transaction is the legitimate cardholder.
For most Visa, Mastercard, and Discover cards, the CVC is a three-digit number found on the back, usually on or to the right of the signature strip. American Express cards feature a four-digit CVC, often called CID, located on the front of the card, usually above the main card number. This code is distinct from the card number and expiration date and is not stored on the magnetic stripe or chip, which helps prevent its capture by card skimmers.
The Role of CVC in Transaction Security
The CVC serves as an added layer of protection for “card-not-present” transactions, such as purchases made online or over the phone. When you provide your CVC during these transactions, it helps confirm that you have physical possession of the card. This makes it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to use stolen card numbers alone, as they would also need the CVC to complete a transaction.
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) regulations prohibit merchants from storing the CVC after a transaction has been authorized. This rule reduces the risk of the CVC being compromised in the event of a data breach at a merchant’s system.
Protecting Your CVC
Safeguarding your CVC prevents unauthorized use of your credit card. You should avoid sharing your CVC via insecure communication methods, such as email or text messages, as these can be intercepted. When making online purchases, always ensure that you are on a secure and trusted website; look for “https://” in the website address and a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar.
Never write down your CVC or store it in an easily accessible location. Be cautious of phishing attempts or suspicious requests that ask for your CVC, as legitimate entities will typically only request it during a secure transaction process. Regularly monitoring your credit card statements for any unauthorized activity provides another layer of protection.