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Masked Aadhaar Card

The Aadhaar card, a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), has become a fundamental component of personal identification in India in a time characterized by digital transactions and identity verification.

The Masked Aadhaar card, a safer substitute that offers the same authentication benefits while protecting your sensitive information, was introduced in response to worries about privacy and data security.

Benefits of Using a Masked Aadhaar Card

The Masked Aadhaar offers numerous advantages over the regular Aadhaar card, making it a preferred choice for many individuals:

Enhanced Privacy: By concealing a significant portion of your Aadhaar number, it adds an extra layer of privacy to your personal information, reducing the risk of it being misused by unauthorized entities.
Prevention of Misuse and Fraud: The masked Aadhaar card significantly reduces the chances of your Aadhaar number being used for fraudulent activities such as identity theft, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access to your financial information.
Secure Transactions: It allows you to conduct online transactions, verify your identity for various services, and complete KYC procedures without exposing your complete Aadhaar number.
Legal Validity: The masked Aadhaar is legally recognized as a valid proof of identity and address for KYC purposes in most scenarios where disclosing your full Aadhaar number is not mandatory.
Convenience: It offers a convenient and secure way to share your identity proof without worrying about your Aadhaar number being misused.

Additional features

Virtual ID (VID): Your masked Aadhaar will also contain a 16-digit Virtual ID (VID) that you can use for authentication purposes instead of your actual Aadhaar number.
QR Code: The masked Aadhaar includes a QR code that stores your Aadhaar details in encrypted form, ensuring secure verification.

Download a Masked Aadhaar Card

Downloading a masked Aadhaar is a simple process that can be done online by following the below steps:

Step 1: Go to the official UIDAI website: https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/
Step 2: Scroll below the homepage and click on the "Download Aadhaar" option under the "My Aadhaar" section.

Step 3: A new window opens, where you need to choose Aadhaar card from the three options, namely Aadhaar Number, Enrolment ID Number, and Virtual ID Number, as we need to download the masked Aadhaar card.
Step 4: Next, enter the details, including the Aadhaar card and captcha details, and click on send OTP.
Step 5: After this, you will be asked, do you want a masked Aadhaar, click on the option to get the same.

Step 6: Next enter, the OTP received on your registered mobile number and click on verify and download.
Step 7: Your Masked Aadhaar will be downloaded.

Step 8: Upon successful verification, a confirmation message will appear on the screen indicating that your Masked Aadhaar card is ready for download.
- The file will automatically download to your device's default download location.
- You can choose to save it to a different location if desired.
Step 9: Lastly, to access your Masked Aadhaar card, locate the downloaded PDF file on your device. When you open the file, a password prompt will appear.
- Enter the password, which is a combination of the first four letters of your name (as it appears on your Aadhaar card) in capital letters, followed by your year of birth in YYYY format (e.g., RAHUL1990).
- Once you have entered the correct password, click "Open" to view and use your Masked Aadhaar card.

Alternative Download Method - DigiLocker App

You can also download your masked Aadhaar from the DigiLocker app:

Download App: Download and install the DigiLocker app on your smartphone, your you can visit - https://www.digilocker.gov.in/.
Sign In: Sign in using your mobile number, username, or Aadhaar number.
Issued Documents: Go to the "Issued Documents" section.
Download Masked Aadhaar: Locate your masked Aadhaar and click on "Save" to download it.

When to use a Masked Aadhaar Card?

The masked Aadhaar card is a versatile tool that can be used in various situations:

Online Transactions: While making online purchases, booking tickets, or availing any online service where Aadhaar verification is required.
Sharing with Unverified Parties: When you need to share your Aadhaar with entities or individuals you don't completely trust, such as hotels, shops, or online vendors.
Limited KYC Requirements: In situations where only proof of identity and address is needed, such as opening a bank account, getting a mobile SIM card, or verifying your identity with service providers.
Data Protection: To minimize the risk of your Aadhaar details being leaked or misused in case of a data breach or cyberattack.

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