What are SaaS CVV codes? 

SaaS CVV codes are the Card Verification Value codes used to authenticate online transactions, specifically on Software as a Service (SaaS) platforms. They verify that the person making the online purchase has the credit card in physical possession. 

This verification helps in preventing fraudulent transactions and enhancing the security of SaaS platforms. 

The CVV is the number located on the back of credit and debit cards, usually in the signature area. 

• For Visa, Mastercard, and Discover cards, it is the last three digits printed there. 
• For American Express cards, the four-digit CVV is also located on the front of the card. 

Its placement is significant because it is not embossed like the card number, thus difficult for fraudsters to obtain through physical card skimming or cloning.

To comply with the PCI Standard, SaaS merchants must not save the CVV code after the transaction is made. 

The CVV code is designed to be a security feature that is not persistent, thus making sure that even if the information is compromised, the CVV does not get compromised as well. 

If a merchant’s database is compromised and the CVVs are stolen, they can be used to perform widespread fraud.

A Dynamic CVV is a security feature that replaces the static, three- or four-digit CVV on a credit card with a temporary, changing code. 

This feature makes it harder for fraudsters to use stolen card details, as the CVV will become obsolete very quickly. 

In the case of SaaS companies, the Dynamic CVV reduces the risk associated with storing or processing CVVs, benefiting the platform and its customers.

There are 3 ways in which SaaS businesses can protect CVV data. These are: 

• Verschlüsselung: used to protect the codes during transmission and storage by providing them with an unintelligible form. 
• Tokenisierung: using a unique token to hide sensitive information 
• PCI-compliance: ensuring a high security level when sensitive data is handled.