What is a credit card security code? + how to find it

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Credit card security codes are an important security measure that help prevent fraud and identity theft. They add an additional layer of safety when making purchases and help ensure the buyer is, in fact, the cardholder.

These security codes—often called a CVV, short for “card verification value”—are three- or four-digit codes located directly on your credit card. You’ll likely be asked for your CVV when making card-not-present transactions, such as those made online and over the phone.

Below, we detail where to find credit card security codes, how they work and why they’re important for consumer protection.

Table of contents

• Where to find your card security code
• Other names for credit card security codes
• Why are credit card security codes important?
• When should you share your card security code?
• How to keep your card security code safe

Where to find your card security code

The location of your CVV depends on the credit card issuer. Your code will either be on the front of your card above your card number or on the back of your card to the right of your card number.

Issuer	Security code length	Where to find the code
American Express	4 digits	Front of the card
Visa	3 digits	Back of the card
Mastercard	3 digits	Back of the card
Discover	3 digits	Back of the card