Discover how credit card validation codes work and protect against fraud. Learn about their placement, security role, and examples to secure online transactions.

A credit card authorization key is a secure code used to process transactions, confirming purchases and preventing fraud ...

Libby Sweeney is a former credit cards editor for Forbes Advisor. Her previous experience writing and editing content for readers to better understand includes both the world of sports and data ...

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. A virtual credit card is a randomly generated card number you can use when shopping online or over the ...

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. An excellent credit score (800 to 850) allows you to qualify for the best credit card offers. Most of the ...

Craig Joseph is a NerdWallet credit cards and travel rewards expert. He has degrees in geology from West Virginia University and oceanography from Oregon State University and has published in academic ...

Paul Soucy has led the Credit Cards content team at NerdWallet since 2015 and the Travel Rewards team since 2023; he is also director of content for Consumer Credit verticals. He was an editor with ...