What is CVV2?

CVV2 (Card Verification Value), CVC2 (Card Validation Code) and CID (Card Identification #) codes are an authentication scheme established by credit card companies to help reduce fraudulent use of credit card numbers in internet transactions. It consists of requiring a card holder to enter the CVV2, CVC2 or CID codes at transaction time. You can find these codes as shown below. If your credit card does not have one of the codes, please contact your credit card company to get a new credit card that will allow us to process your online credit card order in the most secure way possible.

WHERE CAN I FIND IT?
Visa, MasterCard, and Discover cards have a 3-digit CVV2 and CVC2 security code. The security code is the last 3 digits of the number on the back of the card (see diagram below). It is always the last group of numbers in the signature space on the back of the cardand is not part of your regular credit card number.

American Express credit cards have a 4-digit CID security code, and it's located on the front of the card in various areas (see diagram below). It is printed (flat), not embossed like the card number.

WHAT DO YOU NEED IT FOR?
The CVV2 number enhances fraud protection and helps to validate two things:

(1) The customer has the credit card in their possession.

(2) The credit card number being used is legitimate.

By helping to prevent credit card fraud, the CVV2 number keeps costs down for everyone.