Glossary

Card number (PAN)

The Primary Account Number (PAN) is the unique number printed on the front of every payment card, whether it's a debit, credit, gift, or any similar card. This number typically ranges from 14 to 19 digits and serves as a critical identifier that links the card to the cardholder's account, facilitating the proper routing and processing of transactions.

The first six to eight digits of the PAN are known as the Bank Identification Number (BIN), also referred to as the Issuer Identification Number (IIN). The BIN/IIN helps identify the institution that issued the card and is crucial for determining the card network to which the transaction should be routed. This segment of the PAN is critical for the security and efficiency of the payment processing network, enabling quick and accurate transaction validations.

Additionally, most cards include a Card Security Code (CSC), known as the CVV or CVC, which is a separate security feature used primarily in card-not-present transactions, such as online or telephone purchases. This code provides an added layer of security by verifying that the cardholder making the purchase has the card in their physical possession.

Together, the PAN, BIN/IIN, and CSC form the backbone of the electronic payment framework, ensuring that transactions are not only processed efficiently but also securely. This system safeguards sensitive cardholder information and reduces the risk of fraudulent transactions, providing confidence to both consumers and merchants in the integrity of the payment process.

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