Correct, that second number on the back of a credit card is the CVT number. 
It is a security code, and supposedly even the customer service people at your 
issuing credit card company a.k.a. bank, doesn't know what it is.

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Richard Fiorello" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 08, 2008 4:20 PM
Subject: signing and pins


Hi;
Just to clarify there are two issues I think here.  You have to both sign
and input your pin.  You can manage the signature, if its hard to read its
probably yours.  The second problem is inputting your pin.  The pin is where
I believe there is a problem.  To further confuse life, I don't believe all
cards require that you provide a pin.  I believe that the pin is primarily
required with a debit card but if anyone has more info please feel free to
share.
Its interesting that you can purchase most anything on line or over the
phone with no pin and no problems.  I have found that an increasing number
of establishments are asking for a second number on the back of your card.
Look at it this way, if you can't use the card you might save money.
Richard