Understanding Credit Card Numbers: What They Mean and How to Protect Them

At O1ne Mortgage, we prioritize consumer credit and finance education. Understanding the numbers on your credit card is crucial for making informed financial decisions. This blog will delve into the significance of these numbers, how they differ from account numbers, and ways to protect your credit card information. For any mortgage service needs, feel free to call us at 213-732-3074.

What Do All the Numbers on Your Credit Card Mean?

Credit cards typically have 15 or 16 digits, each serving a specific purpose. These numbers are not random; they follow international standards to facilitate secure and accurate transactions. Here’s a breakdown of what each digit represents:

First Digit

The first digit indicates the card’s payment network. For instance:

• 3: American Express, Diners Club, or Carte Blanche
• 4: Visa
• 2 or 5: Mastercard
• 6: Discover

Digits 2 through 6

These digits are known as issuer identification numbers (IINs). They identify your card issuer and the specific credit card product. For example, Chase uses the number 414720 for its Visa cards.

Remaining Digits

The remaining digits make up your account number, which is linked to your card issuer to ensure transactions are routed correctly. The last digit, known as the “check digit,” helps verify the validity of your credit card number.

Modern credit cards often have flat-printed numbers instead of raised ones, as chip readers have replaced old-school machines that required embossed numbers. Additionally, credit card numbers are now generally found on the back of the card.

Credit Card Numbers vs. Account Numbers

Many people mistakenly believe their credit card number is their account number, but these are two different numbers. Your account number can be found on your credit card statement or in your account dashboard. Since your account number is different from your credit card number, your card issuer can replace a lost or stolen card without creating a new account for you.

Other Numbers on Your Credit Card

Besides your credit card number, your card also features other important numbers, including the CVV code and expiration date.

CVV

The CVV (Card Verification Value) is a three-digit number on the back of Visa, Mastercard, and Discover cards, and a four-digit number on the front of American Express cards. This number provides extra verification for online and phone transactions, making it harder for hackers to make unauthorized purchases.

Expiration Date

Credit cards have an expiration date, usually set to three to five years from the issue date. This date is listed in a two-digit month and year format (e.g., 03/28). When your card expires, your account remains active, but the card itself is no longer functional. You’ll typically receive a replacement card in the mail before the expiration date.

How to Protect Your Credit Card Number

Understanding the security measures your credit card issuer employs is essential, but you also need to take steps to protect your credit card information. Here are some tips:

Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN encrypts your internet activity, protecting your privacy and sensitive data. If a hacker intercepts your internet activity, all they’ll see is a random stream of characters, making it difficult to hack your accounts or steal your identity.

Use a Virtual Credit Card

A virtual credit card is a temporary and disposable number that provides more anonymity for online purchases. Your card issuer generates these random numbers tied to your account. You can usually set up virtual card numbers in your account settings.

Browse Securely

Ensure you shop securely at sites with URLs starting with HTTPS, not HTTP. The “S” stands for secure, meaning the site encrypts your information when connected to its website.

Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links

Hackers use phishing, smishing, and vishing techniques to steal your credit card information. Rather than clicking on potentially fraudulent links received via email or text, type the website URL manually in your browser when shopping or banking online.

Keep an Eye Out for Unauthorized Transactions

Your credit card has 15 or 16 numbers in a specific sequence designed to ensure safe transactions and prevent unauthorized ones. To keep your account safe, take the necessary steps to protect your credit number, including your CVV code.

Despite your best efforts, hackers and fraudsters can still gain access to your accounts. It’s wise to monitor your credit scores, reports, and account statements regularly to spot suspicious activity. Identity theft and credit protection services can aid your efforts with identity theft monitoring, dark web surveillance, and privacy scans to remove your personal information from people finder sites.

For any mortgage service needs, O1ne Mortgage is here to help. Call us at 213-732-3074 to speak with one of our expert loan salespersons. We are committed to providing you with the best service and ensuring your financial security.