Card Verification Code / Card Verification Value (CVC, CVV)

Each card has a security code CVV CVC, be it credit or debit.

CVV is a card authentication code that is used for protecting it from unauthorized persons. The digital combination is applied on the back side of the plastic carrier in the field for the client’s signature, where the last four digits of the card number and the code are separated by a space.

CVV2 is designed for financial operations in an environment where the physical presence of the card is not necessary. In other words, when paying online it is enough to enter card details.

In combination with the card number, PIN code, and other data about the card’s validity period, it makes it unique and prevents its use by fraudsters.

The cards of different payment systems call the verification code in a different manner. However, the operation principle for CVC, CVV2, CID or CVP2 is the same. To pay for the purchase, you need to enter three numbers situated on the rear of the card, along with other information about the means of payment.

So, sellers of goods and services are prohibited from storing CVC2 (CVV2) codes even for a short time. They serve only for instant authentication of the card user.

Unlike one-time passwords that are generated each time for confirming a payment operation, the CVC2 CVV2 code is permanent, which was created when a card was issued.

Like any other personal password, the CVV of a bank card should be carefully kept from strangers. It is impossible to learn the CVV code simply by card number. But, knowing such information as the card number, its validity period and CVV2 code, attackers can pay with other people’s money on the Internet without the knowledge of the owner.

There are several rules that must be followed to ensure that your verification code is not in the hands of intruders:

•        Do not tell anyone the numbers of the verification code.
•        Use the CVC code on the Internet only when paying for purchases
•        CVC code of virtual cards is not recommended to be recorded or saved in files
•        In no case do not give a CVC code, if you owe to pay
•        Use Mobile Bank to control payments from the card.
•        Give no one your card.