Selling CVV numbers on any online shop or forum is illegal in the United States. It is a form of payment card fraud that can lead to federal charges, heavy fines, and imprisonment. The safest and only legal action is to never buy, sell, or trade CVV data, and to immediately report any such activity to the authorities.
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What Is a CVV?
CVV stands for Card Verification Value. It is the three- or four-digit security code printed on credit or debit cards. It is used as an extra layer of authentication for card-not-present transactions, such as online purchases. Sharing or selling your CVV, or someone else’s, compromises the security of the payment system.
Why Selling CVV Is Illegal
CVV numbers are linked to a credit card account and the cardholder’s personal information. Selling them typically means you are dealing in stolen payment card data. This violates several federal and state laws, including the Federal Computer Fraud and Abuse Act and often the Economic Espionage Act. Law enforcement agencies like the FBI often partner with the FTC and other agencies to prosecute these cases.
- It enables credit card fraud and identity theft.
- It violates card network rules and can result in penalties.
- It may trigger money laundering and organized crime investigations.
Legal Consequences of Selling CVV
If caught, you could face:
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- Federal criminal charges with up to 20 years in prison for wire fraud.
- Fines up to $250,000 or more, depending on the case.
- Civil lawsuits from cardholders and financial institutions.
- A permanent criminal record that harms your future employment and housing.
How to Protect Yourself from CVV Fraud
If you are a legitimate cardholder, take these steps to avoid being a victim:
- Never share your CVV with anyone via email, phone, or text.
- Use virtual cards or one-time payment numbers when buying online.
- Monitor your statements regularly for unauthorized charges.
- Enable purchase alerts via your bank or card issuer.
- Shop only on trusted, secure websites (look for https and a padlock icon).
What to Do If You Spot a CVV Shop
If you come across a website or forum selling CVV data, do not engage. Report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Your action can help stop fraud and protect others.