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Released: January 23, 2012
Help Desk FAQ
Credit Cards
Debit Cards
Gift Cards
Prepaid Cards
What is a credit card “security code” and what purpose does it serve?
Many credit cards have a special numerical code used by many merchants to verify that the card is in your possession when you make purchases by phone or on the Internet. These three- or four-digit numbers are found on the back of the card, typically at the end of the space where you sign the card. If your card number and expiration date were stolen, but not the card itself, the thief would not have access to this security code.
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