What is a CVV and CVC on a debit card?

You can think of debit cards as an electronic version of cash.  They’re connected to your bank account and transfer money to other accounts to conveniently pay for things. So you can shop, transfer money to savings, and pay bills.

Since debit cards provide access to the money in your debit account, they’re important to keep secure. The Card Verification Value (CVV) and the Card Verification Code (CVC) numbers are one of their built-in security features. 

The CVV and CVC numbers are the security codes found on the back of your debit card that help encode your banking information. 

Still have questions? Don’t worry. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about CVVs and CVCs, the difference between them, and how to keep your info safe. 

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What is a CVV on a debit card? And where can you find it?

Have you ever shopped online and been asked for a security code and thought, ‘What is the security code on a debit card?’ or ‘Is a security code the same as a CVV?’ Allow us to explain.

A CVV is a security code typically found on the back of your debit card on the signature panel. Locate it by flipping over your card and looking for the three or four-digit code on the back. Think of the CVV code as a way to authorize your purchases. If someone gets hold of your card number but doesn’t have your security code, they’ll have a more challenging time using your info to buy things online. 

How are CVV and CVC numbers different?

When it comes to a CVV vs CVC, they function the same and are both located on the back of your card in the signature line. CVV is a term used by Visa, and CVC is the term used by Mastercard. Feel free to use them interchangeably.

Pro tip: Both debit and credit cards use CVVs or CVCs to keep your info secure. Make sure to locate the code on each of your cards.

Understanding CVV and CVC numbers

Now that you know what CVV and CVC numbers are and where to find them on your card, let’s discuss how they work.

CVV and CVC numbers are generated by a bank when it issues your debit card. In the same way you enter your PIN to use your debit card in person, you use your CVV and CVC to authorize purchases online. Ultimately, entering your CVV or CVC helps prove you have the physical card in your possession when making online payments.

Retailers are not allowed to store your CVV or CVC in their systems, making it difficult for others to use your information for fraudulent purchases, even in the event of a breach.

When do you need to use your CVV or CVC?

CVVs and CVCs are used to verify online or remote purchases. You’ll typically be asked to provide your CVV or CVC and a cardholder name when buying things on your phone, computer, or phone call. However, it’s important to know that not every retailer requires a CVV or CVC.

5 tips to keep your debit card secure

In addition to your debit’s built-in security, there are several things you can do to protect your banking information. Use these five tips to keep your debit card secure. 

1. Keep your PIN and CVV/CVC to yourself

PINs and CVV/CVC codes grant access to your bank accounts, so prioritize keeping these numbers secure. The key? Don’t tell anyone the codes, and avoid writing them down — even in your notes app. 

2. Sign your card

While CVVs and CVCs help keep your card safe from fraudulent online purchases, it’s still possible for your information to be taken. Suppose someone makes a fraudulent card with your information or steals your physical debit card. In that case, a signature will help retailers identify the fraud by comparing the signature on a signature pad to the signature on the card.

3. Monitor your account

Check your debit account regularly to make sure each purchase is legitimate. If a fraudulent purchase — or an incorrect amount — shows up on your statement, contact your bank right away. 

4. Only purchase from trusted merchants

Use your best judgment when making online purchases to avoid untrustworthy retailers and getting scammed online. How? Before making a purchase, confirm that the website’s checkout process requires your CVV or CVC. This is a small step that helps protect your card info. 

5. Protect your physical card

The easiest way to protect your CVV and CVC? Keep track of your debit card. Contact your bank immediately to cancel and reorder your card if you lose it or suspect it may have been lost.

A debit card that has your back

As the #1 family finance and safety app, Greenlight helps families —  just like yours — learn to manage, save, and invest money. When financially savvy kids and teens are empowered, they turn into financially independent adults. (And we love to see it!)

Ready to sign up? With the Greenlight debit card, you can make instant transfers, turn cards on and off via your mobile phone, log in with Face ID, and block unsafe spending categories. Security = peace of mind. Try Greenlight for one month risk-free!†