what is cvv

A CVV (Card Verification Value) number is a series of three or four digits that is printed on a credit or debit card, in addition to the bank card number. It is a security feature used for card-not-present transactions, where a personal identification number cannot be used. The CVV number helps protect against credit card fraud by providing a second layer of protection for cardholders. It is different from a personal identification number (PIN), which is typically used for in-person payments or using a debit card at an ATM. The CVV number is not the same as the cards secret PIN. It is also known as the Card Security Code (CSC) or CVV2 number. The CVV number can be located on the back of the card for Visa, MasterCard, and Discover branded credit and debit cards, and on the front of the card for American Express branded credit or debit cards. The CVV2 number is often used by merchants for card-not-present transactions, including online purchases.