Aadhaar Virtual Id
Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) is a unique 16-digit temporary number introduced by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) as an additional layer of privacy and security for Aadhaar authentication. Instead of sharing the actual 12-digit Aadhaar number, users can generate a VID, which can be used for various authentication purposes, ensuring data confidentiality and safeguarding against potential identity misuse. The introduction of Aadhaar Virtual ID strengthens the trust in the Aadhaar ecosystem and empowers individuals with a safer and more convenient means of accessing services while preserving their privacy.
What is Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) ?
Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) is a distinctive 16-digit code designed as an alternative to the 12-digit Aadhaar number. Assigned randomly to each Aadhaar number, VID ensures enhanced privacy by preventing hackers from tracing Aadhaar biometric details through the VID.
Since 1st June 2018, UIDAI has mandated all agencies to accept VID instead of Aadhaar number. When customers provide VID to service providers, it grants access to limited KYC information only, safeguarding biometric details and user data associated with the Aadhaar number. VID offers an added layer of security and control over personal information during authentication processes.
What's the use of
VID?
The Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) serves as a crucial privacy-enhancing measure in the Aadhaar ecosystem. Its main uses are:
- Privacy Protection: VID enables users to maintain their privacy by providing a 16-digit temporary number instead of their 12-digit Aadhaar number. This helps prevent potential misuse of Aadhaar data and protects users from identity theft or unauthorized access to personal information.
- Aadhaar Authentication: VID can be used in place of the Aadhaar number for authentication purposes. When individuals present VID to service providers, it grants access to limited KYC information only, ensuring that sensitive biometric and demographic data associated with the Aadhaar number remains secure.
- Revocable and Temporary: VID is revocable and can be generated multiple times, allowing users to change it frequently for added security. It provides a dynamic layer of protection against unauthorized tracking or linking of Aadhaar information.
- Mandatory Acceptance: As of 1st June 2018, UIDAI has made it compulsory for all agencies to accept VID in place of the Aadhaar number. This ensures that users have the option to use VID for authentication across various services and transactions.
How to generate an Aadhaar Virtual ID ?
To generate an Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID), follow these steps:
- Visit the UIDAI’s official website: Go to the UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in/.
- Find “Aadhaar Services”: Look for the “Aadhaar Services” or “My Aadhaar” section on the website’s homepage.
- Click on “Virtual ID (VID) Generator”: Under the “Aadhaar Services” section, click on “Virtual ID (VID) Generator.”
- Please enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number in the specified field.
- Solve CAPTCHA: Enter the security code or CAPTCHA displayed on the screen.
- Request for OTP: Click on the “Send OTP” button to request a One-Time Password (OTP) on your registered mobile number.
- Verify OTP: Enter the OTP received on your mobile in the provided field and click on “Submit.”
- Generate VID: After successful verification, you will receive a new 16-digit Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) on the screen.
- Save or Note the VID: Note down the VID or save it securely on your device for future use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A: Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) is a 16-digit temporary number that can be used in place of the 12-digit Aadhaar number for authentication purposes.
A: VID is introduced to enhance privacy and security by preventing the misuse of Aadhaar data and providing users with more control over their personal information.
A: VID can be generated online through the UIDAI website using your 12-digit Aadhaar number and a One-Time Password (OTP) received on your registered mobile number.
A: Starting from 1st June 2018, UIDAI mandated all agencies to accept Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) as an alternative to the Aadhaar number for authentication, providing users with the choice to use VID for secure authentication purposes.
A: Yes, VID is revocable and can be generated multiple times. Users can change it frequently for added security and privacy.
A: VID provides access to limited KYC information only, ensuring that sensitive biometric and demographic data associated with the Aadhaar number remains secure.
Conclusion :
As Aadhaar continues to play a pivotal role in India’s identification landscape, Aadhaar Virtual IDs stand as a testament to UIDAI’s dedication to creating a secure and privacy-respecting authentication framework. With VID, the Aadhaar ecosystem advances towards a future where privacy and security are paramount, empowering individuals to confidently embrace Aadhaar-enabled services while safeguarding their personal information.