What is CVV2?

CVV2 is an important security feature for credit card transactions on the Internet and over the phone. "CVV" stands for "Card Verification Value" (Discover Card calls it the "Cardmember ID").

Since a CVV2 number is listed on your credit card, but is not stored anywhere, the only way to know the correct CVV2 number for your credit card is to physically have possession of the card itself.

The CVV2 number enhances fraud protection and helps to validate two things:

• The customer has the credit card in their possession

• The credit card number is legitimate

By helping to prevent credit card fraud, the CVV2 number keeps costs down for everyone.

All VISA, MasterCard and American Express cards made in America in the past 5 years or so have a CVV2 number.

How to find your CVV2 number:

On a Visa or MasterCard, please turn your card over and look in the signature strip. You will find (either the entire 16-digit string of your card number, OR just the last 4 digits), followed by a space, followed by a 3-digit number. That 3-digit number is your CVV2 number. (See below)

Visa, MasterCard & Discover:

This number is printed on your MasterCard & Visa cards in the signature area of the back of the card. (it is the last 3 digits AFTER the credit card number in the signature area of the card).

IF YOU CANNOT READ YOUR CVV2 NUMBER, YOU WILL HAVE TO CONTACT THE ISSUING CREDITOR.

American Express:

On American Express Cards, the CVV2 number is a 4-digit number that appears above the end of your card number. (See below)

American Express cards show the CVV2 printed above and to the right of the imprinted card number on the front of the card. It is printed (flat), not embossed like the card number.