Also known as Card Validation Code or Value, or Card Security Code. Refers to either: (1) magnetic-stripe data, or (2) printed security features.
- Data element on a card’s magnetic stripe that uses secure cryptographic processes to protect data integrity on the stripe, and reveals any alteration or counterfeiting. Referred to as CAV, CVC, CVV, or CSC depending on payment card brand. The following list provides the terms for each card brand:
- CAV – Card Authentication Value (JCB payment cards)
- PAN CVC – Card Validation Code (MasterCard payment cards)
- CVV – Card Verification Value (Visa and Discover payment cards)
- CSC – Card Security Code (American Express)
- For Discover, JCB, MasterCard, and Visa payment cards, the second type of card verification value or code is the rightmost three-digit value printed in the signature panel area on the back of the card. For American Express payment cards, the code is a four-digit unembossed number printed above the PAN on the face of the payment cards. The code is uniquely associated with each individual piece of plastic and ties the PAN to the plastic. The following list provides the terms for each card brand:
- CID – Card Identification Number (American Express and Discover payment cards)
- CAV2 – Card Authentication Value 2 (JCB payment cards)
- PAN CVC2 – Card Validation Code 2 (MasterCard payment cards)
- CVV2 – Card Verification Value 2 (Visa payment cards)
