Which term is commonly known as the Card Security Code?

• A. CID
• B. CSC
• C. CAV
• D. CVV2

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is the naming of the three- or four-digit code used to verify a card during transactions where the card isn’t physically present. The term commonly known as the Card Security Code is CSC. This abbreviation is the label you’ll see in PCI DSS and many payment industry references for the security code that helps authenticate the card in card-not-present transactions. Other acronyms like CID, CAV, or CVV2 exist in various networks or contexts, but CSC is the standard term that directly maps to “Card Security Code,” which is why it’s the best choice. In practice, you’ll typically see a three-digit CSC on the back of most cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover) and a four-digit code on the front of American Express cards. This code is a fraud-prevention measure, and PCI DSS guidance also emphasizes that merchants should not store the CSC after authorization.