What is the 3 digit number on a card called?

The Mystery of the Three-Digit Number: Understanding Your Card’s CVV

That tiny three-digit (or sometimes four-digit) number lurking on the back of your payment card – what exactly is it, and why is it so important? While you might casually refer to it as the “security code,” its official name and function are more nuanced than that simple label suggests.

The number, officially termed the Card Verification Value (CVV), is a crucial security feature designed to protect you from fraud. It acts as an extra layer of verification, confirming that the person making the purchase actually possesses the physical card. This is distinct from your card number, expiry date, and name, which can all be obtained through various means, including theft or data breaches.

The CVV is not embossed on the card like the card number; it’s printed separately, usually on the back, near the signature strip. This strategic placement helps prevent unauthorized copying, as the number is harder to reproduce during skimming or other forms of card fraud.

While the term CVV is universally accepted, you may also encounter slightly different names depending on the card network:

• CVC (Card Verification Code): Commonly used by Mastercard and Discover.
• CID (Card Identification Number): Used by American Express cards. Note that American Express cards typically have a four-digit CID located on the front of the card.

Regardless of the name, the purpose remains consistent: to verify that the cardholder is in physical possession of the card during online or phone transactions. This helps prevent fraudulent use of stolen or compromised card numbers. When you enter your CVV during an online purchase, the merchant’s payment processor compares it to the number stored on the magnetic strip or chip of your card. A mismatch signals a potential security issue, flagging the transaction for further review.

The CVV’s role in securing your financial information is undeniable. Always protect it diligently, never sharing it over unsecured channels or writing it down where it could be easily accessed. Understanding the function and importance of this seemingly small number is a significant step towards protecting yourself from financial fraud.