Masked Aadhaar Card

In response to concerns about data privacy, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has developed a variant of the Aadhaar Card known as a Masked Aadhaar. This new version is designed to increase the privacy and security of an individual's personal data when using an Aadhaar Card for verification purposes.

What is a Masked Aadhaar?

The UIDAI Masked Aadhaar Card contains a partially masked Aadhaar number, where the first eight digits of the 12-digit Aadhaar number are replaced with asterisks, and only the last four digits are visible. This ensures that the sensitive information of the individual, such as the full Aadhaar number, remains secure and protected from unauthorized access or misuse.

The Masked Aadhaar Card can be used for all verification purposes, including opening bank accounts, obtaining a new SIM card, or availing government services. The card is as valid as the regular Aadhaar Card, and individuals can use it in the same way as they would use their regular Aadhaar Card.
 

Why Should I Use a Masked Aadhaar?

There are several reasons why you should use a Masked Aadhaar:

• Enhanced privacy:

With the Masked Aadhaar, the first eight digits of the 12-digit Aadhaar number are replaced with asterisks, and only the last four digits are visible. This ensures that sensitive personal information is not readily available, which can protect an individuals' privacy.

• Security:

By concealing a portion of the Aadhaar number, the Masked Aadhaar reduces the risk of identity theft or fraud. This can be particularly important when using Aadhaar for verification purposes, such as when opening a bank account or obtaining a new SIM card.

• Convenience:

A Masked Aadhaar is as valid as the regular Aadhaar Card and can be used for all verification purposes. This means that individuals can use the Masked Aadhaar in the same way as they would use their regular Aadhaar Card.

• Flexibility:

A Masked Aadhaar is particularly useful when individuals need to share their Aadhaar details for verification purposes but do not wish to disclose their full Aadhaar number. For example, when submitting Aadhaar details for a job application or for online services, the Masked Aadhaar can provide an added layer of protection.
 

How to download a Masked Aadhaar?

To obtain a Masked Aadhaar, you can follow the same process as obtaining a regular Aadhaar Card:

• Visit the official website of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) at uidai.gov.in.

• Under the Aadhaar Services section, click on "Download Aadhaar."
• Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or your 28-digit Enrollment ID and the required security code.
• Select the option to receive the OTP (one-time password) on your registered mobile number.
• Once you receive the OTP, enter it in the designated field and click on "Download Aadhaar."
• On the next screen, you will be prompted to choose between downloading a regular Aadhaar or a Masked Aadhaar. Select "Masked Aadhaar" and proceed.
• Your Masked Aadhaar will be downloaded to your device.
• Alternatively, individuals can also obtain a Masked Aadhaar by visiting an Aadhaar enrollment centre and requesting a masked version of their Aadhaar Card.
   

Masked Aadhaar Vs Regular Aadhaar

Masked Aadhaar Card and Regular Aadhaar Card are two different versions of the Aadhaar Card issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Here are the key differences between the two:

• Privacy:

A Masked Aadhaar Card offers more privacy compared to the Regular Aadhaar Card. In the Masked Aadhaar Card, the first eight digits of the Aadhaar number are replaced with asterisks, and only the last four digits are visible. This ensures that sensitive personal information is not readily available, which can protect individuals' privacy.

• Security:

A Masked Aadhaar Card reduces the risk of identity theft or fraud by concealing a portion of the Aadhaar number. This can be particularly important when using Aadhaar for verification purposes, such as when opening a bank account or obtaining a new SIM card. However, both Regular and Masked Aadhaar Cards are considered valid forms of identification.

• Convenience:

Both Regular and Masked Aadhaar Cards are equally convenient to use for all verification purposes. However, some organizations may prefer the Regular Aadhaar Card over the Masked Aadhaar Card for their own reasons.

• Availability:

Both Regular and Masked Aadhaar Cards are issued by UIDAI and are available to all eligible Indian residents. The application process for both cards is the same, and individuals can obtain either one as per their requirement.
 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Masked Aadhaar Card is a unique feature of the Aadhaar Card that offers enhanced privacy and security to an individuals' personal information. With the first eight digits of the Aadhaar number replaced with asterisks, individuals can protect their sensitive information while using Aadhaar for verification purposes. A Masked Aadhaar Card can be obtained online or by visiting an Aadhaar enrollment centre, and it is as valid as a regular Aadhaar Card for all verification purposes. While a Regular Aadhaar Card remains the most commonly used form of identification, a Masked Aadhaar Card is an excellent alternative for individuals who wish to protect their personal information while sharing their Aadhaar details.