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Credit Card Security Code


What is a Card Security Code?

The Card Security Code (CSC) is a 3- or 4-digit number printed on your credit card. It provides added security when you use your card on the Internet or over the phone. The number appears only on the card itself, not on receipts or statements.

We ask for the security code CSC when you enter your payment information. This helps ensure that anyone placing an order with Barnes & Noble.com has the card in his or her possession and is not using a stolen credit card number.

Each credit card company has a different name for the security code and puts it in a different place.

For Visa, MasterCard and Discover Cards

Turn the card over and look at the signature box. You will find either the entire 16-digit credit card number or just the last 4 digits, followed by the 3-digit CSC.

Look on the card’s back. Printed in the signature box is either the entire 16-digit credit card number or just its last 4 digits. The 3-digit security code follows. On new Visa cards, the code is embedded nearby in the plastic.
Back view of a sample Visa, MasterCard, or Discover Card

For American Express Cards

The security code CSC is always located above the account number on the face of the card, sometimes on the left side and sometimes on the right. Note: Some American Express cards have a 4-digit number below the account number. This is not the security code CSC.

Front view of a American Express Card