Card Security Code

A Card Security Code (CSC), also known as Card Validation Code (CVC2), Card Verification Value (CVV2) or Card Identification Number (CID) is a fraud prevention tool for Cardholder Not Present (CNP) payment transactions. In order to process a telephone or online purchase you will always be required by the merchant to provide your CSC number, since it serves as evidence that the person placing the order has physical possession of the card.

It is important to keep in mind that the code’s name, its position and its length are determined depending on the card company.

Name variations

The most known CSC name variations are the following:

  • Visa: Card Verification Value (CVV2)
  • MasterCard: Card Validation Code (CVC2)
  • American Express: Card Identification Number (CID)

Where and how do I find the CSC code?

  • Visa and MasterCard: Three digit code placed at the back of the card near the signature area.
  • American Express: Four digit code located on the front of the card near the card number.