Masked Aadhaar is a feature introduced by the Unique Identification Authority of India. (Representative image)
Masked Aadhaar Card: It is important to keep your masked Aadhaar document secure and not share it with unauthorised individuals.
Masked Aadhaar: Instances of Aadhaar-based fraud have seen a rise in recent years. Typically, these fraudulent activities involve criminals using stolen Aadhaar numbers to gain financial benefits or access services. Cybercriminals have developed advanced methods to bypass conventional security measures, including OTPs, CVV numbers, and even bank details.
Several reports have emerged of cybercriminals exploiting the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS). These scams involve duplicating individuals’ Aadhaar-linked biometrics using silicon fingerprints and unauthorised biometric devices, allowing them to siphon funds from victims’ bank accounts.
In response, several financial institutions have advised Aadhaar holders to protect their identity by adopting security measures, such as locking biometrics and using masked Aadhaar whenever possible.
Masked Aadhaar:
Masked Aadhaar is a feature introduced by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to enhance privacy and limit the exposure of Aadhaar details. In a masked Aadhaar, some digits of the Aadhaar number are obscured, while key demographic information, such as the name, photograph, and QR code, remains visible.
The various forms of Aadhaar include the Aadhaar letter, Aadhaar PVC card, eAadhaar, masked Aadhaar, and mAadhaar. All forms are equally valid and acceptable.
In simple terms, a masked Aadhaar is a version of your Aadhaar card where the first eight digits of your Aadhaar number are replaced with ‘X’ to protect your privacy and prevent misuse of your Aadhaar number.
Benefits of using a masked Aadhaar:
- It protects your privacy.
- It prevents your Aadhaar number from being misused.
- It is accepted by most organisations.
- If you need to share your Aadhaar number, you can provide the masked Aadhaar instead of your full number, ensuring better privacy protection.
Your masked Aadhaar will be downloaded in PDF format. You can print and use this card whenever you need to provide your Aadhaar number.
How to download a masked Aadhaar:
To obtain a masked Aadhaar, follow these steps:
- Visit the official UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in/.
- Under the “My Aadhaar” section, click on “Download Aadhaar”.
- You will be redirected to the Aadhaar download page.
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or 16-digit Virtual ID (VID), along with other required details such as your full name, postcode, and security code.
- In the “Select your preference” section, choose the “Masked Aadhaar” option.
- Select the option to receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on your registered mobile number.
- Enter the OTP to complete the verification process.
- You will then be able to download the masked Aadhaar in a password-protected PDF format.
It’s important to keep your masked Aadhaar document secure and avoid sharing it with unauthorised individuals.
