CVV2 stands for "Card Verification Value 2" and is a security feature for transactions where your debit card is not physically present. It is a three or four-digit value that provides payment systems with a check of your debit cards authenticity. The terms CVV2, CVC2, and CID are generally used interchangeably. The CVV2 code is located on the back of Visa, MasterCard, or Discover debit cards, to the right of the credit card number in the signature area. On American Express debit cards, it is a four-digit numeric code located on the front of the card. The CVV2 code helps payment processors confirm that the actual card issuer is the one making a purchase, as opposed to a fraudster who purchased stolen account information online, for example. Providing your CVV2 number to an online merchant proves that you actually have the physical debit card and helps to keep you safe while reducing fraud. CVV2 numbers are not your cards secret PIN (Personal Identification Number) . You should never enter your PIN number when asked to provide your CVV2.