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Key Highlights
- Aadhaar VID is a 16-digit temporary and reversible number mapped to your Aadhaar number.
- It prevents disclosure of your Aadhaar number during authentication.
- It can be regenerated multiple times, ensuring additional security.
- The number is easily generated via UIDAI website, mAadhaar app, or SMS.
Aadhaar Virtual ID: 16-Digits of Magnified Security
In today's fast-paced world, where everything needs to be available on your smartphone, carrying a physical copy of your Aadhaar might appear to be a hassle. Your Aadhaar number is mapped to the 16-digit Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) , a transient, reversible number. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) introduced the VID Aadhar to enhance security around your Aadhaar identification further. In this blog post, learn what Aadhar VID means, its benefits, uses, and more.
What Is Virtual Aadhar Number?
Aadhaar Virtual ID is a 16-digit number that can be utilised in place of your Aadhaar number for identification and verification purposes. The VID improves your security and privacy by being connected to your Aadhaar number without disclosing it. Every VID is unique and can be regenerated after its validity period expires.
What Does Virtual Aadhaar ID Entail?
You can generate only one Virtual ID (VID) linked to an Aadhaar number at any given time. However, you can generate a new VID as often as needed. This number is temporary, valid for at least one day, and can be updated daily at 00:00 AM.The Aadhaar Virtual ID allows access to an Aadhaar card holder's biometric data and essential information required for e-KYC , such as name, address, and photograph. Crucially, the agency conducting the e-KYC will not have access to the user's 12-digit Aadhaar number or other personal details, enhancing privacy and security.
Benefits of Aadhaar Virtual ID
- Enhanced Privacy: By preventing the disclosure of your actual Aadhaar number during authentication procedures, the Aadhaar Virtual VID eliminates the possibility of fraud, data leakage, and identity theft.
- Temporary and Revocable: The old VID Aadhaar will automatically expire and you can create a new one as often as you'd like. This transient nature offers an additional degree of protection.
- Simple to Generate: You can easily generate the number using a variety of means.
- Accepted Worldwide: This Virtual ID of Aadhaar functions as a flexible verification tool and is an accepted form of authentication.
Also Read: How To Download the MAadhaar App On Android and iOS devices?
How to Get Aadhaar Virtual ID?
There are multiple ways to generate your Aadhaar Card Virtual ID Number by using the mAadhaar app, the UIDAI website, or sending an SMS.
1. Generating Virtual ID for Aadhaar through UIDAI Website
- Visit the UIDAI Website : Open your browser and go to the UIDAI official website ( https://uidai.gov.in/ ).
- Navigate to VID Generation Page : On the homepage, look for the “My Aadhaar” section. Under this section, you will find “Aadhaar Services”. Click on “Virtual ID (VID) Generator”.
- Enter Your Details : You will be prompted to enter your Aadhaar number and the security code (CAPTCHA) displayed on the screen.
- Request OTP : Click on the “Send OTP” button. An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to your registered mobile number.
- Enter OTP : Enter the OTP received on your mobile and click on “Generate VID”.
- Generate VID : Upon successful verification, your 16-digit VID will be generated and sent to your registered mobile number via SMS.
2. Generating Aadhaar VID through mAadhaar App
- Download mAadhaar App : If you don’t have the mAadhaar app , download it from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Login to Your Account : Open the app and log in with your Aadhaar number and password. If you don’t have an account, you will need to register first.
- Navigate to VID Generation : In the app, go to the “Aadhaar Services” section. Look for the “VID Generation” option and click on it.
- Generate VID : Follow the prompts to generate your VID. The VID will be displayed on the screen and sent to your registered mobile number via SMS.
3. Generating VID Aadhaar through SMS
- Send the SMS : Type last four digits of your Aadhaar number and send it to 1947 (official UIDAI helpline number). If your Aadhaar number is 1234 5678 9101, type and send, 9101.
- Receive VID : You will receive an SMS with your 16-digit VID on your registered mobile number.
Things to Bear in Mind While Creating an Aadhaar Virtual ID
- Registered Mobile Number: Ensure to carry your registered mobile number with UIDAI to receive the OTP that is needed to generate the VID.
- Maintain Aadhaar VID Security: Your Virtual Aadhaar ID is similar to your Aadhaar number. Don't distribute it needlessly.
- Regeneration: Renew your Aadhaar VID Number if you suspect its security has been compromised.
- Validity: Every virtual id has a temporary lifespan and is regenerative. Once a new VID is generated, the old one becomes invalid.
Also Read : E-Aadhaar made easy: 5 steps to your digital identity
Secure Your Identity with Aadhaar Virtual ID
The Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) is a significant advancement in securing your Aadhaar details, which provides boosted privacy and protection. By understanding how to generate and use the VID, you can ensure that your Aadhaar number remains secure while still benefiting from its various uses. The process to generate a VID is straightforward and can be done through multiple channels, making it accessible and user-friendly.
FAQS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a Virtual Aadhaar number ?
Your Aadhar Virtual ID serves as an alternate number to your Aadhaar ID and can be used in place of your Aadhaar number for various verification processes, ensuring that your identity number remains secure.
How to get Aadhaar Virtual ID ?
You can generate your Virtual ID for Aadhaar card using the mAadhaar app, through the UIDAI website, or by sending an SMS to 1947.
Is generating Aadhaar Card Virtual ID Number subject to any fees ?
No, you can generate the number without any fees; it's free.
How frequently can I create additional Aadhaar VID ?
You can generate a fresh Aadhaar VID whenever necessary; it can be re-generated infinite number of times. Every new VID renders the preceding one invalid.
Is the Aadhaar VID required for every transaction ?
No, not all transactions necessitate VID Aadhaar. It is a substitute for Aadhaar identification, used for authentication, ensuring an additional degree of security and privacy.
How should I proceed if I misplace my Aadhaar VID ?
You can create a new Aadhar Virtual ID through multiple channels.
Why do we need Aadhaar Virtual ID ?
The digital 16-digit Aadhaar VID prevents data leakage, functioning as a protective shield for your Aadhaar and related identity.
Can I retrieve my Aadhaar number using the Aadhaar Virtual ID ?
No, VID Aadhaar does not facilitate retrieving Aadhaar number.
Is it compulsory to generate Virtual ID for Aadhar card ?
No, Virtual Aadhaar ID is not a necessity. However, it can be generated if required.
Can I use my Aadhar Card Virtual ID Number for e-KYC ?
Yes. Your Aadhaar Virtual ID can be used for e-KYC authentication.
The information contained herein is generic in nature and is meant for educational purposes only. Nothing here is to be construed as an investment or financial or taxation advice nor to be considered as an invitation or solicitation or advertisement for any financial product. Readers are advised to exercise discretion and should seek independent professional advice prior to making any investment decision in relation to any financial product. Aditya Birla Capital Group is not liable for any decision arising out of the use of this information.
