What Is the CVV on a Credit Card?

A CVV is a number on your credit card that acts as a security feature. The CVV helps verify credit card ownership for certain types of transactions, such as online or phone orders.

Let’s take a closer look at CVVs, including where to find them, why they matter and tips to keep your CVVs safe.

What does CVV mean on a credit card?

A credit card CVV number is a security feature that provides additional identity theft protection for card-not-present transactions. For instance, you’re typically asked to enter your CVV number, along with other credit card details, when shopping online.

Depending on the credit card issuer, you may also see the CVV referred to as:

• Card security code (CSC)
• Card verification code (CVC)
• Card identification number (CID)

Keep in mind, however, that your CVV number is not the same as your credit card PIN, which you might use to take out a cash advance at an ATM.

Where is the CVV on a credit card?

Your CVV number’s location can depend on the credit card issuer. For most credit cards, your CVV is a 3-digit number listed on the back of the card. But some issuers, for example, may use a 4-digit number on the front of the card.

What is the purpose of a CVV?

Credit card CVV numbers are designed to help protect your account against fraud. A CVV requires you to have the physical card on hand, acting as a way to confirm your identity when completing transactions where the card isn’t present.

If fraudsters hack into a merchant’s customer database that stores your credit card details, for example, they may not be able to access your CVV. This is because your CVV can't be stored by merchants once your transaction is completed. Without your CVV, they’ll be less likely to be able to make purchases with your card.

When is the CVV used?

Your credit card CVV is generally only used for certain transactions, including:

• Online purchases
• Phone or mail orders

You may also need to add your CVV when adding your credit card to a digital wallet.

In-store purchases, whether you swipe the card or use your credit card chip, don’t typically require you to input your CVV number.

Considerations to keep your CVV safe

There are several ways you can help safeguard your credit card CVV. For example, it’s a good idea to only use your CVV on trusted, secure websites and avoid sharing the number in unsecured messages or with unknown parties.

You may also consider using virtual credit card numbers, which are single-use credit card numbers with different CVV numbers. Once they've been associated with a transaction, these numbers are useless to scammers, adding another layer of security for online purchases. Virtual credit card numbers aren’t available with all credit cards, but it's worth checking if your credit card offers them.

Beyond that, monitoring your statements for unauthorized transactions can help you spot and report potential fraud. That way, your issuer may start an investigation and potentially send you a new credit card to help avoid additional fraudulent charges. 

Disclosure: This article is for educational purposes. It is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and is not a substitute for professional advice. It does not indicate the availability of any Citi product or service. For advice about your specific circumstances, you should consult a qualified professional.