Credit Card Security Code
If you intend to pay using a Visa, Mastercard or American Express credit card, we require you to enter a special security number in addition to the card's full number. This is done for your protection, as a means of preventing fraud. How does this help? The security code is only printed the card and is not contained in the magnetic stripe information, nor does it appear on sales receipts or billing statements - you must have the card in your possession in order to use this code. Card security codes are not raised, so they are not scanned into standard credit card readers. In theory, these numbers are only visible to you. When you give your card security code to a merchant, you assist the merchant in verifying that the order is being placed by you, 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 your card security code. Visa/Mastercard Flip your card over and look at the signature box. You should see either the entire 16-digit credit card number or just the last four digits followed by a special 3-digit code. This 3-digit code is your card security code.