what is a cvv code 
a cvv code or validation code is a three or four digit number printed on the front or back of credit and debit cards depending on the card issuer it stands for card verification value and is intended to provide an additional level of security the theory is that a thief who obtains your card number might not have the actual card and would be unable to provide the cvv code if asked for it can a store print your credit card number on your receipt under the federal fair and accurate credit transaction act facta merchants must truncate your credit or debit card number on electronically printed receipts showing no more than the last five digits there is no such limit on handwritten or similar receipts they are also prohibited from including your card s expiration date these rules are meant to offer some protection against identity theft 5