for the code, but they're not allowed to keep it on file, so in theory it can't be stolen by a break-in. The credit card companies charge less for a transaction with a card present (e.g. physically swiped, or giving the CVV if done over the Internet or phone.)  That's because they think there's less chance of fraud if you have the actual card; they didn't just get it off of a list they downloaded off the Internet. In practice, it's much less useful.  Lists including the CVV are available all over the place.  They get them from physically stolen cards, or by hacking into computers and listening while the transaction is taking place, or from unscrupulous merchants who keep the code around even though they're forbidden to. Pin It is a security PIN number that is used when making online purchases.  Very few if any normal retailers will ever ask you for the number because it is built into the cards magnetic strip. I might be wrong in this, but I would also assume that since it is on the back of the card only, and not on the front with the rest of the card, it serves as an extra security purpose from theifs.  If i was to install a camera near an ATM machine, I could easily get all your card info from an picture of the front of your card.  Then I could easily take that image and go buy things on your card online, except