What is a CVV code and how can I locate it?

CVV number is card verification value. This is a 3 or 4 digit code that is stated at the back of a debit or credit card. When you purchase online you have to enter this code to continue with your payment and complete a transaction. 

Why is CVV Number So Important?

A CVV number is important because it shows to an online merchant that you have the physical debit or credit card with you for real. It can help reduce fraud as well as manage to keep you safe. Every online merchant these days need customers to enter the credit card number and other details as well as the CVV code to carry out authorized transactions. This is one of the multiple layers of security features that have been introduced to keep finances safe, during the time of purchase or while making a payment online. 

Some people feel that a CVV number is the secret pin for personal identification number of a card. However, that is not the case. It is actually a powerful safety feature that can reduce safety risks while carrying out transactions on the cyber world. 

Where Can I Locate this Number? 

It is present on the right side of the white colored signature strip on the back of credit or debit card. For credit cards that come from card issuing companies like Discover, Visa and MasterCard this number is located there on the back portion of the cards. In case you cannot find your CVV number there you can call up your card issuing company and obtain the code.

It is impossible to forge or guess this code simply by knowing your credit card number. The code cannot be also copied at the time of swiping your card somewhere. In case there is some alteration in the data contained in your cards’ magnetic strip, a “damaged card” error will be shown and the transaction would be declined. In this way your CVV code, helps keep you safe from fraudulent transactions in many ways.

There is no need for you to be concerned about a data breach either, because - as per the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards - online merchants cannot store the code. This is the reason why, even on apps that you use often, you will find the CVV area to be always empty. Each time that you try to complete a new transaction, you have to type the CVV code into the box.