What Is the Credit Card Security Code?

The credit card Security Code, also called the Bank code or the Card Identification Number (CIN), is a
special security code feature on the American Express, Discover, MasterCard or Visa credit card.

By requiring the Security Code to be entered with the customer's credit card, you are verifying that the order is being placed by the card holder. The Security Code offers protection to the card holder as well. The Card Identification Number (CID) is not raised, so they are not scanned into standard credit card readers. In theory, these numbers are only visible to the card holder.

American Express
Look for the 4-digit code printed on the front of your card just above and to the right of your main credit card number. This 4-digit code is the credit card Security Code.

MasterCard
Flip your card over and look at the signature box. You should see a 16-digit credit card number followed by a special 3-digit code. This 3-digit code is the credit card Security Code.

Visa
Flip your card over and look at the signature box. You should see a 16-digit credit card number followed by a special 3-digit code. This 3-digit code is the credit card Security Code.

Discover
Flip your card over and look at the signature box. You should see a 16-digit credit card number followed by a special 3-digit code. This 3-digit code is the credit card Security Code.