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| Compare Account Numbers: The account number embossed on the card must be exactly the same as the 13 or 16-digit account number indent-printed on the signature panel, and printed on the sales draft. (In some cases only the last 4 digits are printed on the signature panel) |  |  |
| Check the Hologram: A hologram should appear three-dimensional and move when the card is tilted. The Visa hologram is a soaring dove; the MasterCard hologram has two inter-locking globes showing the continents. |  |  |
| Check the Signature Panel: The 13 or 16-digit account number (some cards only have 4 digits) indent-printed in reverse italics on the signature panel is followed by a three-digit card validation code. |  |  |
| Check the Signature: The signature on the back of the card must reasonably compare with the signature on the sales draft. |  |  |
| Check the security character: MasterCards have a stylised "MC" embossed on the line next to the valid dates; Visa cards have a "V" in the same place. |  |  |
| Check the VALID DATES: The VALID DATE lists the last date on which the card is valid. Some cards may have an EFFECTIVE DATE as well. |  |  |
| Verify the printed number: A four-digit number may be pre-printed on the card just below the account number. It must match the first four digits of the embossed account number. |  |  |
| Check the account number: MasterCard account numbers start with 5, Visa account numbers with 4. The embossing should be clear and uniform in size and spacing. |  |  |
