Credit Card
Summary: CVV, or Card Verification Value, is a three or four digit number printed on the back of the Credit Card. Read this article to learn about the use and significance of the CVV number.
07 Jan 2023 by IDFC FIRST Bank
When it comes to friends and family, sharing everything is often encouraged, but this rule doesn't apply to your credit card details. It's crucial to keep this information confidential to prevent fraud. Credit cards display essential information such as the cardholder's full name, card number, and expiration dates, all of which are key security elements. However, the most critical piece of information is the CVV.
What is CVV?
CVV stands for Card Verification Value. It is a security feature in credit card and debit card transactions, especially for online purchases. The CVV number is a three or four-digit code generated by credit card issuers and is unique to each card. This number is essential for verifying transactions and preventing fraud. The CVV is typically located on the back of the card (for Visa, MasterCard, and Discover) or on the front (for American Express).
Why is the CVV important?
The CVV helps ensure that the person using the card for an online or phone transaction has the physical card in their possession. This reduces the risk of fraud and unauthorized transactions. For maximum security, the CVV should never be shared with anyone.
How is the CVV generated?
The CVV number is created using several factors:
a. Credit card number
b. Service code
c. Card expiry date
d. Issuer's unique code
These elements combine to produce a code that helps protect your card information from unauthorized use.
How do I locate the CVV in a creditcard?
Locating the CVV is simple. It is the three-digit number at the back of your credit card. For certain types of credit cards, it could be a four-digit number printed on the front.
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Components in a CVV
There are two parts to the CVV number.
- The first part is covered in a striped magnetic strip. It contains crucial unique data pertaining to yourcredit card. This information is recovered when the card is swiped through a magnetic reader machine.
- The second part consists of digits which need to be entered while making an online or telephonic transaction. This security number is one of the manyadvantages of a credit card.
What is the purpose of the CVV?
CVV is to credit card what a security guard is to an establishment. It helps safeguard your credit card against theft, fraud or unauthorised transactions. The CVV ensures that only the card owner uses the card. Even if someone gets hold of thecredit card number, they cannot transact without the CVV.
Is CVV the same as my card’s PIN?
Your card’s Personal Identification Number (PIN) isNOTthe same as the CVV. The PIN is used for making in-person transactions with the card or at ATMs. Whereas the CVV is used when makingpayments onlineor over the phone.
What if I swipe my card?
Fortunately, unlike other details of a card, the CVV cannot be stored while swiping or while punching online. Even though the CVV provides security, it does not absolve users of the caution they should take while using a credit card like not sharing the CVV with others.
We hope this article has been informative with respect to the nuances of a credit card. With IDFC FIRST Bank, you can get a lifetime free credit card and earn up to 10x reward points on every purchase.You can apply for credit card with instant approval and zero joining fees.
You can also keep track of all your credit and debit cards using a mobile banking app.
Disclaimer
The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circ*mstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.
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