The Card Verification Code (CVC) is an extra code printed on your debit or credit card that serves as a security measure for online transactions. It is a three-digit numerical code printed on the back of credit, debit, and prepaid cards, and it is usually the last three digits in case of Visa and MasterCard. American Express cards have a four-digit CVV on the front of the card. The CVC is not embossed on the card, so it is not printed on any receipts and is unlikely to be known by anyone other than the card owner. The CVC is required for all online payments where the card is not present and the PIN code cannot be entered. The CVC is used to verify the authenticity of the credit or debit card used in online transactions and to prevent fraud. It helps to safeguard debit and credit cards against fraud, theft, and unauthorized transactions. The CVC is proof that the card user is in possession of the card at every point in time when they make online transactions.