What does Credit card number mean?

Credit cards have many features that make them unique and stand out, one of which is the credit card number that is imprinted on the surface of every card. This number is composed of a section of six digits which is called issuer identification number. These digits identify the credit card issuer, for instance American Express or Discover, each company has a set sequence of numbers that distinguishes their card from any others.

The rest of the digits on the credit card are unique for every individual credit card. The numbers on the card are typically embossed, this was used initially to get the exact physical imprint of a card when a transaction took place, using a device known as a zip-zap machine.