With Aadhaar becoming the most important identification document in India, one is bound to use it for all sorts of official work. This also makes Aadhaar vulnerable to frauds and scams. To safeguard the authenticity of Aadhaar IDs, the UIDAI has launched the Virtual ID (VID) that serves the same purpose as Aadhaar. You can give your VID in place of Aadhaar, as the UIDAI has made it mandatory for agencies to accept VID from June 1, 2018.
What is a VID?
VID is a temporary, revocable 16-digit random number mapped with Aadhaar numbers. Referred also as Masked Aadhaar, your VID can be used for e-KYC in such circumstances, where sharing your Aadhaar is not mandatory.
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While downloading online copies of Aadhaar, VID or Masked Aadhaar, it only shows the last four digits of Aadhaar numbers and the rest are hidden within. The remaining 12 digits are random numbers. Therefore, your Aadhaar card number is not visible to others, substantially cutting down any scope for misuse.
How to generate VID online?
Step 1: Go to the official UIDAI portal. Under ‘Get Aadhaar’ tab, you will find the sub-section ‘Aadhaar Services’. Among the services tab, there is ‘Virtual ID (VID) Generator’. Click on it.
Step 2: You will be redirected to a new page, where you will have to click on ‘VID Generator’ option. You will find this option towards the lower end of the page.
Step 3: A new page will open, where you will get the option to generate your VID or retrieve your VID. Select the ‘Generate VID’ option. Enter your Aadhaar number with the Captcha code and click on ‘Send OTP’.
See also: A quick guide on e PAN download process
Step 4: Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number and click on ‘Verify And Proceed’.
Step 5: You will receive a message displaying your VID on the screen. You will also receive an SMS showing your VID.
VID FAQs
Is it possible to find Aadhaar number from VID?
No, it is not possible to find Aadhaar number from VID.
Can an agency store my VID?
Your VID is temporary. You can change it anytime. It means, storing a VID has no value for any agency.
What is the expiry of a VID number?
A VID remains valid till a new VID is generated by the Aadhaar holder.
What happens to an old VID after a new is generated?
The old VID becomes inactive after a new VID is generated. In case you opt for retrieval of your previous VID, your last active VID will be sent to you.
Can VID be used for OTP, biometrics, or demographic authentication?
Yes, your VID can be used in place of Aadhaar number in authentication API input.
How to replace an old VID?
Your existing VID can be replaced by a new one, a day after it was generated.
Where can I generate my VID?
Your VID can be generated on the official UIDAI portal.
Where is my VID stored?
The UIDAI sends you an SMS with your VID after you apply for the same. Keep this SMS handy.
An alumna of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Dhenkanal, Sunita Mishra brings over 16 years of expertise to the fields of legal matters, financial insights, and property market trends. Recognised for her ability to elucidate complex topics, her articles serve as a go-to resource for home buyers navigating intricate subjects. Through her extensive career, she has been associated with esteemed organisations like the Financial Express, Hindustan Times, Network18, All India Radio, and Business Standard.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Sunita holds an MA degree in Sanskrit, with a specialisation in Indian Philosophy, from Delhi University. Outside of her work schedule, she likes to unwind by practising Yoga, and pursues her passion for travel.
sunita.mishra@proptiger.com
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