Where can I find the this Security Code? |
Visa, MasterCard, and Discover Users American Express Credit Card Users |
What is the Security Code? |
It is an important new Internet security feature that now
appears on the back of most Visa, MasterCard, and Discover cards, and on the
front of American Express cards. This new code is a three or four-digit
number which provides a cryptographic check of the information embossed on
the card. The security code helps validate that the customer placing the
online order actually has the credit card in his/her possession, and that
the credit/debit card account is legitimate. |
How does my Security Code protect me? |
The security code is only printed the card and it is not
contained in the magnetic stripe information nor does it appear on sales
receipts or billing statements - you must have the card in your possession
in order to use this code. Card Security Codes are not raised, so they are not scanned into standard credit card readers. In theory, these numbers are only visible to you. When you give your Card Security Code to a merchant, you assist the merchant in verifying that the order is being placed by you, the card holder. |
Do I have to enter this Security Code? |
If this code is printed on your card, YES, you must enter
the code. Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express now require
Internet stores to obtain the security code for all cards that have a code
printed on them. In order for this transaction to be accepted and processed,
you must enter this code if it's printed on your card. This is done for your
protection. |
What if I can not read my number? |
If you cannot read the number on your card, enter the
letter "I" as in "illegible" in the CVV field. This will let your bank know
that the number is there, but cannot be read. Putting in an "X" instead of
an "I" may cause your bank to deny the sale. |