The CVV (card verification value) is the 3 or 4-digit security code printed on your debit or credit card. Its job is to confirm that you physically have the card when making purchases online or over the phone, adding a layer of protection that your card number alone can't provide.

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What CVV stands for and where to find it\n

CVV stands for card verification value, though different card networks use different names for the same thing:

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Visa, Mastercard, and Discover, 3 digits, printed on the back of the card to the right of the signature strip

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American Express, 4 digits, printed on the front of the card above the card number

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Other common names for the same code include Card Security Code (CSC), Card Verification Number (CVN), and Card Identification Number (CIN). They all serve the same purpose.

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One important rule: merchants are prohibited by PCI Data Security Standards from storing your CVV after a transaction completes. Card numbers and names can be stored; CVVs cannot. This means that even if a retailer's system is breached, your CVV should not be accessible to attackers.

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How your CVV protects you\n

Your CVV is designed specifically for card-not-present (CNP) transactions, situations where you can't physically swipe, insert, or tap your card. When you shop online or pay over the phone, merchants ask for your CVV to verify that you have the physical card in front of you.

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This matters because card numbers can be copied or exposed in a data breach. Without the CVV, a stolen card number is much harder to use for online purchases. Since merchants can't store CVVs, a database hack at a retailer shouldn't expose yours.

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When you pay in person, tapping, inserting, or swiping, there's no need to enter your CVV. The chip or contactless technology handles authentication directly. If someone in a shop asks you to read out your CVV, that's a red flag.

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How to keep your CVV safe\n

A few straightforward habits go a long way:

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Never share your CVV over text, email, or social media, not even with someone claiming to be from your bank

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Only enter card details on secure websites (look for "https" in the address bar)

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Check your Bank Account statements regularly for charges you don't recognize

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Avoid entering card details on public or unsecured Wi-Fi networks

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Use trusted retailers; if a site looks unfamiliar, research it before sharing payment details

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With bunq, you get Instant Notifications for every transaction, so you'll know straight away if something unexpected happens. Spotted something suspicious? You can freeze your Credit Card or any bunq card instantly from the app. Learn more about how bunq keeps your account secure.

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Frequently asked questions\n

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Can I find my CVV in the bunq app? For digital cards, yes, you can view card details including the CVV securely inside the app.

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What if I've shared my CVV accidentally? Contact your bank immediately and consider freezing or replacing your card.

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Does my CVV change if I get a new card? Yes. If your card is replaced or renewed, you'll receive a new CVV.

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Is it safe to save my CVV on a website? Reputable websites process your CVV but don't store it. Be cautious about sites that claim to save it for convenience.

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