Introduction: The Aadhaar card is one of the most critical documents for Indian citizens, often required for various services and transactions. Over the years, instances of fraud involving Aadhaar numbers have surged, prompting the government to introduce a more secure option: the Aadhaar Virtual ID. This innovative feature allows individuals to conduct their transactions without disclosing their actual Aadhaar numbers, thereby enhancing safety and privacy.

What is the Aadhaar Virtual ID?

The Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) is a temporary 16-digit number that serves as an alternative to the conventional Aadhaar number. This unique identifier can be used to prove one’s identity without revealing sensitive details like the Aadhaar number, mobile number, or bank account information. It is generated based on the Aadhaar number, but using a Virtual ID does not expose the personal Aadhar number. Importantly, only one VID can be generated for each Aadhaar number, and it remains valid for at least one day. This VID can be updated daily as needed, providing flexibility and security for the user.

Benefits of Using Aadhaar Virtual ID

• Enhanced Privacy: Users can perform transactions without sharing their actual Aadhaar numbers, reducing the risk of identity theft.
• Reduced Fraud Risk: By not revealing their Aadhaar numbers, the potential for fraudulent activities decreases significantly.
• Convenience: The process of generating a Virtual ID is straightforward and can be completed quickly through various methods.
• Single-use Capability: Each VID can be generated for a specific transaction and is valid for a limited time, providing an added layer of security.

How to Generate a Virtual Aadhaar ID from UIDAI?

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Visit the official UIDAI website.
2. Navigate to the ‘Aadhaar Services’ section and click on ‘Virtual ID Generator.’
3. Enter your Aadhaar number and the security code displayed.
4. Click on the ‘Send OTP’ option to receive a One-Time Password on your registered mobile number.
5. Once you receive the OTP, enter it and click on ‘Generate VID.’ Your Virtual ID will be displayed on the screen.

Generating Virtual ID via SMS

You can also generate a Virtual ID using SMS. Simply send a message from your registered mobile number in the following format: GVID followed by the last four digits of your Aadhaar number to 1947. For example: GVID1234.

Using the mAadhaar App to Generate Virtual ID

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Log in to the mAadhaar app on your mobile device.
2. Select the ‘Generate Virtual ID’ option.
3. Input your Aadhaar number along with the CAPTCHA code.
4. Click on ‘Request OTP’ to receive the OTP on your registered mobile number.
5. Enter the OTP and click on ‘Generate VID.’ Your Virtual ID will be generated and displayed.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Aadhaar Virtual ID marks a significant step towards safeguarding personal information while still allowing individuals to access essential services seamlessly. By leveraging this feature, citizens can mitigate risks associated with sharing sensitive data, all the while enjoying the convenience that technology provides. Whether through the UIDAI website, SMS, or the mAadhaar app, generating a Virtual ID is a simple yet effective way to protect your identity in today’s digital age.