Every business that accepts online payments must understand CVC cards and their role in securing transactions. The CVC code is a security feature that helps verify cardholder identity and reduce fraud.
If your business processes payments, understanding CVC on a card can help protect your customers and prevent unauthorized transactions. In this guide, we’ll explain what CVC in cards means, where to find it, how it differs from CVV codes, and how businesses can use it to improve payment security.
What Is a CVC Card?
A CVC card is simply a debit or credit card with a Card Verification Code (CVC) printed on it. This code is used during online and phone transactions to confirm that the person making the purchase physically possesses the card.
The CVC code is known by different names depending on the card provider:
- Visa: CVC or CVV code Visa (Card Verification Value)
- MasterCard: CVC code (Card Verification Code)
- American Express: CID (Card Identification Number)
All major card networks use CVC in Visa cards, MasterCard CVV codes, and other similar security codes to prevent fraud.
What Is the CVV/CVC Code on a Debit Card?
The CVV/CVC code on a debit card is a three-digit number printed on the back of the card, next to the signature strip. It is used to verify online and over-the-phone transactions.
How does it work?
- A customer enters their card details (card number, expiry date, and CVC code).
- The payment processor verifies the CVC in the card with the issuing bank.
- If the CVC code is correct, the transaction is approved.
- If incorrect, the transaction is declined to prevent fraud.
Debit cards use the CVC code as an extra layer of security to ensure the buyer actually has the card in their possession.
What Is the CVV/CVC Code on a Credit Card?
The CVV/CVC in credit cards works the same way as it does on debit cards. It is a three-digit code on the back of the card (except for American Express, where it is a four-digit code on the front).
Why is it important?
- The CVC in Visa cards and MasterCard CVC codes add security to transactions.
- Merchants cannot store the CVC code after a transaction, reducing fraud risks.
- The CVC/CVV meaning helps confirm the cardholder’s presence.
Businesses should require CVC on card payments to reduce chargebacks and protect against stolen card data.
How Does the CVC Code Protect Businesses and Customers?
The CVC code plays a crucial role in fraud prevention. It ensures that even if a hacker steals card details, they cannot complete a transaction without the CVC.
How CVC Codes Protect Online Payments:
- Prevents Unauthorized Transactions – The CVC ensures the customer has the actual card.
- Reduces Chargebacks – Merchants are less likely to face fraudulent disputes.
- Stops Data Breaches from Being Useful – If hackers steal card numbers, they won’t have the CVC code.
Merchants must follow PCI DSS regulations by never storing CVC codes after processing payments.
CVC Code by Card Type: Where to Find It?
| Card Type | CVC Code Location |
| Visa | 3-digit code on the back |
| MasterCard | 3-digit code on the back |
| American Express | 4-digit code on the front |
| Discover | 3-digit code on the back |
Understanding the CVC in Visa card and CVC code location helps businesses train employees and prevent fraud.
What Is the Difference Between CVV and CVC?
CVV vs. CVC is a common question. The two terms mean the same thing but vary by card network:
- CVC (Card Verification Code) – Used by MasterCard.
- CVV (Card Verification Value) – Used by Visa.
- CID (Card Identification Number) – Used by American Express.
Regardless of the name, all these codes serve the same security purpose.
How Businesses Can Secure Transactions & Prevent Fraud?
Businesses accepting CVC card payments should implement security best practices:
- Require CVC Codes for All Transactions – Never process payments without verifying the CVC.
- Use Multi-Layer Authentication – Add OTP verification for extra security.
- Encrypt Payment Data – Ensure all transactions are secured with SSL/TLS encryption.
- Follow PCI Compliance Rules – Do not store CVC codes after transactions.
- Monitor Transactions for Fraud – Use fraud detection tools to flag suspicious payments.
Businesses handling CVC on a Visa card or CVC in cards must ensure their payment system is secure to prevent fraud.
How to Accept CVC Payments for Subscription-Based Services?
Many businesses operate on subscription models where recurring payments are common. Since merchants cannot store CVC codes, they must use alternative security methods:
- Tokenization: Converts card data into a secure, reusable token.
- 3D Secure (3DS2): Adds an extra authentication layer.
- Fraud Monitoring: Automatically flags suspicious transactions.
Subscription businesses must comply with PCI DSS standards while ensuring smooth, secure payments.
How PureWL Can Help Businesses Stay Secure?
PureWL provides a White Label Password Manager solution, allowing businesses to offer their customers a secure way to store and manage passwords.
With PureWL’s Password Manager, businesses can:
- Offer a branded password management solution to customers.
- Enable secure storage of login credentials for payment platforms and online accounts.
- Provide encryption-based protection to keep customer data safe.
- Reduce fraud risks by ensuring customers use strong, unique passwords.
If your business wants to add value and security to your offerings, PureWL’s White Label Password Manager is the perfect solution.
Final Thoughts – Why CVC Codes Matter for Secure Business Payments?
The CVC card is a key part of online payment security. It helps verify transactions, protect businesses, and prevent fraud. Merchants accepting CVC on card payments should ensure they follow security best practices to keep customer data safe.
By following these best practices, businesses can protect their transactions and gain the trust of their customers.