What is CVV on a credit card? Explanation: CVV, CVC, CID

BySimon Niklaus
Was ist CVV bei Kreditkarten? CVV, CVC, CID

The CVV (Card Verification Value) is the three- or four-digit number that is usually located on the back of the card. The CVV (also known as CVC) can sometimes be found on the front of the card as well, such as on American Express cards. The CVV is a key factor in enhancing security when using credit cards. 

CVC or CVV for more credit card security

How does the CVV work?

The CVV works by requiring the buyer to enter the CVV in addition to the credit card number and expiration date when making online purchases. Requesting the CVV serves as an additional step to verify the buyer’s identity. The online merchant uses the CVV to verify the authenticity of the transaction. 

The CVV serves as an additional layer of security for online transactions. Since it is not stored on the card’s magnetic strip, it plays a key role in minimizing the risk of fraud caused by the copying of credit card data (skimming).

It is of great importance never to disclose the CVV to third parties and to ensure that it is entered only on trustworthy and secure websites.

What is the difference between CVV and CVC?

CVC (Card Verification Code) and CVV (Card Verification Value) fulfill the same function and serve the same security purpose. They differ mainly in the terminology used by different credit card companies.

Visa refers to this security code as CVC, while Mastercard uses the term CVV. Both codes have three digits and are located on the back of the credit card.

What other names exist for the CVV?

In addition to CVC and CVV, there are other terms such as CVV2, CVC2, and CID (Card Identification Number), which are used by other card providers like American Express. The various terms all serve the same purpose: to enhance the security of online transactions. They differ only in their naming and their position on the card.

Which credit cards use security codes?

All credit cards on the Swiss credit card market use security codes such as the CVV or an equivalent. If you still need a credit card with a CVV, check out our credit card comparison.

Founder

Simon Niklaus is the founder, CEO, and editor at Kredite Schweiz. As a finance enthusiast and expert in matters affecting our everyday finances, he is always there for you.

Through his academic education at the University of Zurich and the University of St.Gallen (HSG), Simon Niklaus has gained in-depth knowledge of the Swiss credit industry. You can find everything you need to know about loans, credit cards, and other forms of credit in his articles.

If you are interested in financial optimization and saving tips in the loan sector, take a quick look at his other articles.