Three digit security code
 

American Express uses a four digit security code printed on the front of the card, but on the signature strip of American Express cards there is also a three digit number, the same as on Mastercard and VISA cards. Has anyone ever been asked for this number or know the purpose?

Yes, Papa Johns around here asks for that 3-digit code even on Amex.

It is interchangeable with the 4-digit code on the front.

No and no.

Huh. I didn't know that ....

But, has anyone ever rejected AmEx' 4-digit code (vs. a 3-digit)? I buy stuff off the 'net every now and then with the Plat and the dialog box auto-expands even, as necessary.

The three digit code is not on either of my two Australian Amex's.

I just received my first amex card (Blue Sky) and was wondering the same thing. So I can enter the 4 digit front number as the security code instead of the 3 digits on the back?

Yes, in fact websites which provide instructions on how to locate the security code typically show the four digit code on the front of the card.

Also not on my UK-issued International Dollar Card or on a UK-issued credit card. Perhaps it is USA or North American only.

Looking at three charge cards issued on same account. Primary card and two supplementary cards. All three have similar, but unique, account numbers. Each has a unique three digit code on the signature strip, but two have the same four digit security code on the front. The two with matching codes also have the same expiration date.

You know, once my charge card was declined at a gas station (Using Chip & PIN). I called Amex on the spot to see what was wrong - the lady on the phone said to type the 4 digit security code in instead of my PIN, and it worked. Really strange.

Anyone else had this happen?

Of my five UK-issued AmEx cards, only the platinum charge card (issued in 2005) does not have the three extra digits.

This is called a Card Security Code. It is only printed on the card not encoded in the magnetic strip so if you swipe your card somewhere then the machine can't pick this infomation up.

My Amex platinum charge card has them, there is a 4 digit one on the front and a 3 digit one on the signature strip along with the card number. :confused:

My plat card is old (issued 2005). It doesn't have a Chip. :) I'm sure the renewed card next year will have Chip and extra digits..

My Canadian AMEX plat Costco card has both the 4 and 3 digit codes on the card.

Sanosuke!

Mia is right, I work in sales for a company that accepts Amex and when a customer pays with Amex we ask for the 4 digits on the front. All other cards 3 digits on the back in the white stripe.

Ric