Can You Process Payments with Just a Card Number, Expiration Date, and CVV?

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Technically, yes, if you create a website and set up a payment system, you can configure it to accept payments using only the card number, expiration date, and CVV. These three pieces of information are typically sufficient for card-not-present transactions, such as online purchases. Here's how it works:

1. Role of the CVV: The CVV (Card Verification Value) is a security feature designed to verify that the person making the transaction has physical access to the card. It is required by most payment processors to reduce fraud in online transactions.
2. PCI Compliance: If you are setting up a payment system, you must comply with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS). These standards require merchants to protect sensitive cardholder data, including the CVV, and prohibit storing the CVV after the transaction is authorized.
3. Fraud Risks: Allowing payments with just these three pieces of information (card number, expiration date, and CVV) can expose your website to fraud. If someone obtains stolen card details, they could use them to make unauthorized purchases on your site.
4. Additional Security Measures: Many modern payment systems require additional layers of security, such as:
   • Address Verification System (AVS): Matches the billing address provided by the user with the one on file with the card issuer.
   • 3D Secure Authentication: Adds an extra step where the cardholder must verify the transaction through a one-time password (OTP) or biometric authentication.

Why Some Websites Don't Require CVV​

Some websites may not require the CVV for transactions, but this is rare and often considered a security risk. Such sites may rely on other fraud prevention measures, but skipping the CVV check increases the likelihood of fraudulent transactions.

Conclusion​

While it is possible to set up a payment system that only requires the card number, expiration date, and CVV, doing so without additional security measures can make your website vulnerable to fraud. To protect your business and customers, it's essential to follow PCI compliance guidelines and implement robust security features like AVS and 3D Secure.