Credit Card Number (CC# / CCN)
A Credit Card Number, also known as a payment card number or primary account number (PAN), is a unique numeric identifier assigned to a credit card or payment card. It is a crucial component of payment card transactions and serves as a reference to identify the cardholder's account.
Key aspects of Credit Card Numbers in the context of payment cards include:
1. Unique Identifier: Each credit card or payment card is assigned a unique Credit Card Number that distinguishes it from other cards. This number is typically embossed or printed on the card itself.
2. Card Issuer Identification: The Credit Card Number includes a Bank Identification Number (BIN), which is the first six digits. The BIN identifies the issuing bank or financial institution that issued the card.
3. Card Brand Identification: The subsequent digits of the Credit Card Number help identify the card brand or payment card network associated with the card, such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, or JCB.
4. Account Identification: The remaining digits of the Credit Card Number provide a unique account identifier within the issuing bank's systems. These digits differentiate individual cardholder accounts associated with the same BIN and card brand.
5. Verification Digits: Credit Card Numbers often include verification digits, such as the last digit of the number or additional security codes like the Card Verification Value (CVV) or Card Verification Code (CVC). These digits help validate the card's authenticity and protect against unauthorized use.
6. Secure Handling: Credit Card Numbers are highly sensitive and should be handled securely to prevent fraud or unauthorized access. Merchants, payment processors, and financial institutions are required to comply with data security standards, such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), to protect cardholder data.
7. Masking and Encryption: To enhance security, Credit Card Numbers are often masked or encrypted when displayed or transmitted. This helps prevent unauthorized viewing or interception of the full card number.
Credit Card Numbers are essential for conducting payment card transactions. When a cardholder makes a purchase, the Credit Card Number, along with other transaction details, is used to authorize and process the payment. It serves as a unique identifier that links the cardholder's account with the transaction, allowing funds to be transferred securely from the cardholder's account to the merchant or service provider.