We show offers we can track - that's not every product on the market...yet. Unless we've said otherwise, products are in no particular order. The terms "best", "top", "cheap" (and variations of these) aren't ratings, though we always explain what's great about a product when we highlight it. This is subject to our terms of use. When you make major financial decisions, consider getting independent financial advice. Always consider your own circumstances when you compare products so you get what's right for you. Most of the data in Finder's comparison tables has the source: Moneyfacts Group PLC. In other cases, Finder has sourced data directly from providers.
What is a CVV or CVC number?
If you’re using your credit card to make a purchase online or over the phone, you’ll usually be asked to provide the name on your card, the account number, expiry date and something called your CVV, CVC or security number or code.
Your CVV number (card verification value) or CVC (card verification code) on your credit card or debit card is a three- or four-digit number printed on your card. If you have a Visa or Mastercard credit or debit card, it’ll be a three-digit number on the back of your card. If you’re using an American Express card, the CVV will be a four-digit number on the front of your card.
The CVV is an anti-fraud measure that’s used when you make a purchase that doesn’t require you to enter a PIN or sign a receipt. This is why you’re often asked to enter your CVV number if you’re shopping online or making a purchase over the phone, as it lets the merchant or payee verify that you have the physical card and are indeed the cardholder.
As the CVV or CVC number is printed only on your card, it’s important that you keep your card safe and secure. If your card is lost or stolen, anyone could use the card to make purchases online or over the phone without your permission. If this does happen, contact your card issuer immediately to cancel the card and keep an eye on your statement to report any fraudulent transactions. The CVV or CVC number is called a Secure Socket Layer (SSL) – commonly used technology which is a digitally provided certification process.
Is a CVV or CVC number called anything else?
The credit card CVC and credit card CVV numbers are sometimes called different things depending on the credit card network or credit card company that issued it. For example, Mastercard calls the code CVC2, American Express refers to it as CID, and Visa has dubbed it CVV2, while other providers may refer to a CSC (card security code).
Despite these different names, the codes all serve the same function and are used as a standardised security measure. In the case of contactless cards there is generally a chip involved which supplies its own electronically generated series of codes. They are called “Dynamic CVV” or iCVV.
Are CVV or CVC numbers the same as my PIN?
No, your CVV or CVC number is different from the PIN code you use to make cash machine withdrawals or in-store debit or credit card transactions. Your CVC or CVV number is used for verifying online or over the phone payments when you can’t use your PIN or signature.
While the CVV or CVC number is in place to protect your credit card from fraudulent transactions, it could still be used fraudulently if you don’t use a secure site. If you spot a transaction you don’t recognise on your statement, contact your bank immediately to report the issue and protect your finances.
More resources on Finder
More guides on Finder
-
Credit card minimum repayment calculator
Use our calculator to find out how long it would take to clear your credit card balance by making the minimum required payments vs paying a fixed amount each month.
-
What is the average credit card APR in the UK?
We look at the average APR on credit cards in the UK and how credit card interest rates have changed over time.
-
Credit card fraud statistics: How common is it in the UK?
£551.3 million was lost to credit, debit and payment card fraud in the UK in 2023. We look at the latest statistics on card fraud in the UK.
-
What is the average credit score in the UK?
What is the average credit score in the UK and how many Brits are estimated to be ‘credit invisible’?
-
Yonder Credit Card review
The Yonder credit card has launched in the UK, using open banking to create a personalised picture of your spending habits to help you get the most out of your credit card.
-
Finder Credit Cards Customer Satisfaction Awards 2020
We reveal the winners and runners-up in our 2020 Customer Satisfaction Awards.
-
Methodology for rating credit cards
Get all the details on how we rate the credit cards we review. We look at costs, fees, features and how well a card performs compared to the rest of the market.
-
Zempler Credit Card (formerly Cashplus) review
This invitation-only credit card makes a solid option if you’re trying to improve your credit score. Here’s how it works.
-
Compare the best cashback credit cards
Get cashback on your purchases with a cashback credit card. Redeem rewards points for cashback or gift cards. Find out more in our guide.
-
Compare 0% purchase credit cards
Buy now and pay interest later with a 0% purchase credit card. Compare current offers with 0% p.a. on purchases.