How to Detect a CCV Code on a Credit Card

CCV codes add a layer of security to online and telephone purchases.

A credit card verification code, or CCV, is an added security measure for credit cards. When someone tries to use a credit card to make a purchase over the phone or on the Internet, the code lets vendors verify that the customer has physical possession of the credit card. The general term "CCV" applies to every type of credit card, but each brand refers to it by a slightly different name. Visa calls it a CVV2, Mastercard uses CVC2, and American Express refers to it as the CID. The location of the CCV code is the same on all cards except for American Express, and detecting it is very simple.

Things You'll Need

• Credit card

Instructions

Detecting the CCV Code

1. Identify the brand of the credit card.

2. Determine which side the CCV code is on. American Express cards have the CCV codes on the front, the side with the card number. All other cards have the code printed on the back.

3. Place the card with the side that has the CCV code face-up.

4. Locate the area where the CCV code is printed. American Express prints the code directly above the last two digits of the credit card number. All other cards print the code inside the signature box under the magnetic strip.

5. Write down the CCV code. The CCV code on American Express cards is the group of four digits printed above the credit card number on the face of the card. All other cards use the last three digits printed in the signature box under the magnetic strip on the back of the card.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a copy of the CCV code in a secure place, in case the numbers on the card become worn and unreadable with use.

References

• Credit Card Information