Definition

The Card Verification Number (CVN) is a three or four digit security code found on the front or back of a credit card. This value, used in card not present transactions, is submitted with an authorization request to help reduce the risk of fraud. Many credit cards have a CVN printed, not embossed, on the card. Each card association has its own name for this value:

• Visa calls it the Card Verification Value (CVV2)
• MasterCard calls it the Card Validation Code (CVC2)
• American Express and Discover refer to it as Card Identification Digits (CID)