Merchant Account Glossary Series:
(Terms and Definitions)

CVC2 (card validation code 2) & CVV2 (card verification value 2)

This has become a popular question and an important security feature on credit card transaction processing.

VISA and MasterCard implemented a security feature known as “CVV2” and “CVC2”. These are the three-digit numbers printed on the back side of your credit card (in the signature panel) to the far right. This three-digit code helps validate that the credit card holder has the card in his/her possession.

For merchants, you will receive either a “match” or “no match” response upon processing a transaction. These numbers are not allowed to be stored.

American Express has a four-digit security code that is typically on the front of the card above the account number.

Discover Card has a three-digit code very similar to Visa/MC in the same location (on the back side of your credit card).