Why Aadhaar data security matters
Since Aadhaar is linked to bank accounts, SIM cards, subsidies, etc., improper use of information and privacy issues has raised various issues. Duplicate use of your Aadhaar number generally increases the threat of identity theft, phishing, and misuse of your data. To counter this, UIDAI has created the concept of Virtual ID (VID), i.e., a layer of privacy.
What is the Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID)?
Virtual ID is a 16-digit virtual number and can be utilized in place of your Aadhaar number to authenticate. Virtual ID is temporary and makes it harder for spammers to utilize your Aadhaar. Evidently, agencies will not be able to read out your Aadhaar number from your VID, thus preventing leakage of your personal information.
How to create or retrieve your VID
You can create or download your VID anytime on the UIDAI portal (https://uidai.gov.in/) or mAadhaar app. The procedure is as follows:
1. Go to UIDAI's 'VID Generator' page
2. Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and OTP on your registered mobile
3. Choose if you want to create a new VID or download your current VID
Your VID will be valid until you choose to create a new one.
Where and when to use your VID
You can use your VID for Aadhaar authentication at banks, telecom companies, or government offices. It is essentially the same as your Aadhaar number but without revealing the original number. Any eKYC or KYC functionality that enables Aadhaar will also enable VID.
Why VID is safer
Unlike Aadhaar, which remains static and unchanged forever, the VID keeps changing each time you generate a new one. Since no agency will ever get to see or keep your Aadhaar number along with the VID, it limits the possibility of misuse of your biometric and demographic data. It also gives you an extra degree of autonomy—you can withdraw or regenerate it whenever you want.
Your Aadhaar security in your own hands
With data breaches the new norm, Aadhaar Virtual ID is a great means to ensure that your identity is safe. Use it wherever possible instead of your Aadhaar number to achieve that little bit more privacy and control.
The FAQs
Q. Is my VID acceptable for all Aadhaar-linked services?
Yes, all such service providers who do Aadhaar authentication need to accept the VID as a valid replacement.
Q. How frequently do I need to renew my VID?
No limit exists, but to renew it every now and then—especially ahead of a high-value transaction—is another security aspect.
Q. What if my VID is lost?
You may re-generate your recent VID or generate a new one anytime through UIDAI portal or mAadhaar app based on OTP-authentication.
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