what is a cvc on a debit card

A CVC (Card Verification Code) or CVV (Card Verification Value) is a security feature found on the back of a debit or credit card. It is a three or four- digit code that is used to verify that the person making an online purchase has the card in their possession. The CVC/CVV code is not embossed on the card and is always the last three digits on the back of the card for Visa and Mastercard. American Express cards have a four-digit code on the front of the card. The CVC/CVV code is required for all online payments where the card is not present and the PIN cannot be manually entered by the cardholder.