Online payments have become very common nowadays. While making a payment through a credit card, you might have wondered several times, “What is Card Security Code CVV?
While making a purchase over a phone or through any website, such as booking a ticket for plane, buying something from Amazon or renting a new car, you might have noticed that credit card number and expiration date are not all the information you need.
The extra information you require is a security feature of a credit card called a CVV or card verification code. It is a crucial requirement for a vendor to proceed with any credit card transaction.
Here in this blog, we will go through what a security Card, commonly known as CVV and how to find it and much more. So, let’s get started.
What is Card Security Code – CVV?
CVV or Card Security Code is a three- or four-digit code used to authorise payments while purchasing online or over the phone. The full form of CVV is Card Verification Value. Typically, the CVV is a three-digit code, while it has four digits on some cards. Whether three or four, it is a security code that is exclusively generated for cards and the respective account holders.
Apart from CVV, the following abbreviations are used for the security code:
CVV2: It is a card verification value the same as CVV; the most important difference is the digit “2”. The number signifies that the code is generated by using a second-generation algorithm. The mode of generation makes the card more secure for use. The CVV2 is found on Visa cards. It is pertinent to note here that CVV and CVV2 work similarly.
CVC: It is an abbreviation for Card Verification Code. The CVC is one of the common security codes for credit cards. The primary user of the CVCs’ are those who use Mastercard. You may also find a second generation of the same code, i.e., CVC2.
The above-mentioned codes are only found on credit cards; debit cards, on the other hand, only have a CSC. The full form of CSC is “Card Security Code.”
All these codes are meant to make online and phone money transactions safe and secure. Even if the hackers stole the credit card number with any malicious intent, they cannot use it for their fraudulent transactions due to the presence of CVV. Now, are you wondering Why?
The CVV code is only found on the credit card itself; no transaction can be completed without it. Therefore, the CVV reduces the risk of phishing attacks or viral or hacker attacks.
Where to Find the Digital Security Code for Credit Card?
The answer is simple: flip your credit card, and you will find the 3-digit security code on it. It might be located on the signature strip or to the right of the strip on Mastercard Cards and Visa Cards. On credit cards with 4-digit CVV, the number is located on the front of the card. Typically, it is located right above the account number.
The Credit card’s security code is not embossed but printed on the card. It means the code is not machine-readable, it adds to the security of the credit cards.
How are The Credit Card Verification Value Numbers Generated?
The CVV or credit card verification value numbers are generated using an intensified algorithm. It is based on various factors such as expiry date, card number and specific codes that might vary depending on the card issuer.
It is important to note here that “No two Credit cards have the same CVVs.” Therefore, the security code will change when you receive a new card.
Another security and safety factor of CVV is that there is no mathematical relevance between card numbers and verification values. Therefore, only the card issuer can verify/authenticate the credit card’s security code.
The Difference between CVV and PIN:
Due to many layers of security, few people think of CVV as a PIN. However, both are very different as they serve completely different purposes. The Card Verification Value (CVV) provides protection against hackers, identity theft, etc., as it helps in the verification of payments through online or over-the-phone shopping. The card CVV is generated by the credit institution.
On the other hand, the PIN is a 4-digit code that is entered by cardholders themselves. It is entered to access the money in the account at the ATM or to authorise the in-store purchase. The PIN code can be updated whenever the user wants. Therefore, do not enter the PIN code when asked for CVV.
How to Protect CVV and Credit Card Number?
Here are a few tips to protect Credit Card Numbers and your security Code:
- Only shop through a trusted website before making any online transaction.
- Make sure you do not share the card details with anyone
- Use the security code while making online or phone purchases.
- Do not open suspicious links that can let phishing attacks snoop on your credit card.
- Use VPN in public spaces to avoid any security breach.
Conclusion:
So that’s all about what is Card Security Code CVV. The code is generated using complex algorithms so the users can shop online and make transactions smoothly without worrying about any security breach or online theft.
