What is the CSC (CVV/CID)?

The Card Security Code (CSC) is usually a 3 or 4-digit number that is not part of the Credit Card Number. The CSC is typically printed on the back of a credit card (usually in the signature field) in reverse italics. Some cards will just show the 3 digits such as "123" while others might include the last 4 digits of your credit card PLUS the 3 digits (e.g. 5678 123). This additional value is not embossed upon the front of the card, nor is it contained upon the magnetic stripe on the back of the card.
The number appears only on the card and not on receipts or statements. We ask for this number because it provides some assurance that the physical card is in the possession of the owner.