What is a CVV number on a credit card?

A card verification value (CVV) is a security code that helps protect you from credit card fraud like identity theft. If you’ve shopped online, you’ve likely had to provide your credit card information, including your CVV number, to make a purchase.

Here’s some more helpful information about CVVs, including where you can find your CVV number, why your CVV number is important and how to help keep your online payments secure.

What you’ll learn:

• A CVV number helps protect your card from unauthorized purchases.

• To find your card’s CVV, look for a three-digit number on the back of the card or a four-digit number on the front of the card.

• A CVV is different from a personal identification number (PIN). A CVV is typically used for online or phone transactions, and a PIN is often for in-person payments or using your debit card at an ATM.

A CVV code is a three- or four-digit number on a credit or debit card that helps prevent credit card fraud. It’s meant to protect cardholders from unauthorized transactions by providing a second layer of protection.

A CVV number is also known by other names, including: 

• Card security code (CSC)

• Card verification code, or card validation code (CVC)

• Card identification number (CID)

A CVV2 is a more advanced form of CVV, created using a second-generation process. This CVV process makes the numbers more difficult for fraudsters to guess. 

You might also see a “2” after the other acronyms—for instance, CVC2.

Your CVV often appears directly on your card, but its exact placement depends on the credit card network. For Discover®, Mastercard® and Visa® cards, the CVV is a three-digit number that appears on the back of the card. American Express® cards have a four-digit CVV that’s located on the front of the card.

Your CVV and PIN aren’t the same. Your CVV is used to verify your identity and make more secure purchases online or over the phone. Your PIN is used to help verify your identity when you use your debit card at an ATM or for in-person purchases. Credit cards may also issue PINs for cash advances.

Your CVV number is important because it adds another layer of protection against credit card fraud. It’s a way for the merchant to confirm that the cardholder is the one using the card. The Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council states that CVV numbers are considered sensitive authentication data. Merchants are required to protect the information and delete the CVV number after a purchase is authorized.

Keep in mind that not all online merchants require you to provide your CVV number to make purchases. And a CVV may not protect you in all cases of credit card fraud.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), your CVV can play an important role in protecting your credit card information.

Here are some measures you can take to help keep your CVV safe:

• Use a virtual card when shopping online. Consider adding an extra layer of protection when shopping online by using virtual card numbers. They’re linked to your credit card account but have their own unique card number and CVV. That way, the numbers on your physical credit card aren’t shared with the websites you’re shopping on—protecting you from potential fraud.

• Only shop on secure websites. If you’re making a purchase, be sure the site has an “s” after “http” (e.g., https://) in its URL—or a lock icon before the URL. Those are signs that the site is secure and data is encrypted. Steering clear of sharing your information with sites that you’re wary of goes a long way.

• Beware of scams. Whether they come in the form of an email, text message or phone call, be on the lookout for phishing scams. And never share your personal information—such as your CVV number. Unless you’re sure the caller is who they say they are, don’t give your account information over the phone. If you’re not sure, consider calling the organization directly instead.

• Monitor your account. Check your account often for any suspicious activity. Consider saving your receipts to compare them with your monthly statement.

If you’re a Capital One cardholder, you can access and enable helpful security features through the Capital One Mobile app or by signing in to your account online.

Learn more about CVVs with the answers to these frequently asked questions:

CVV stands for card verification value—it’s a three- or four-digit number on your credit card or debit card that helps protect you against fraud. But although CVV codes offer protection, they can’t guarantee your information stays secure. Like other account information, be sure to keep your CVV private. If you’re worried about credit card fraud, remember to be cautious while shopping online—and know how to spot and avoid scams. 

Another way you can help protect yourself is to regularly monitor your credit. Get free copies of your credit reports by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com. You can also do this by using CreditWise from Capital One. With CreditWise, you can access your credit score and credit report for free. Plus, it’s available to everyone—Capital One cardholder or not.