According to data released by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), Aadhaar cards have been issued to over 138 crore Indians. Aadhaar card is an important identity document for Indian citizens that provides proof of identity and address.
Masked Aadhaar Card is essential for various government and non-government services. It is the electronic version of your regular Aadhaar card with enhanced privacy features.
Article Details:
- Article Name: Masked Aadhaar Card
- Article Type: Masked Aadhaar Card details, Download
- Process Type: Online and Offline
- Department Name: UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India)
- Website: https://uidai.gov.in/
What is Masked Aadhaar Card?
Masked Aadhaar Card is similar to a regular Aadhaar card, but the Aadhaar number is partially hidden. In this Aadhaar card, only the last 4 digits of the Aadhaar number are visible.
The Masked Aadhaar Card contains information like name, date of birth, gender, address and QR code, just like a regular Aadhaar card. You can easily download this Aadhaar card online.
Note: The first 8 digits of your Aadhaar number are masked (hidden) and displayed as "XXXX-XXXX" followed by the last 4 visible digits.
Digital Innovations in Aadhaar Ecosystem
mAadhaar Mobile App
Official UIDAI app that stores your Aadhaar profile on your smartphone with biometric lock/unlock feature.
Virtual ID (VID)
Temporary 16-digit random number that can be used instead of your Aadhaar number for authentication.
DigiLocker Integration
Store and access your Aadhaar documents securely in your DigiLocker account.
QR Code Technology
Secure QR codes on e-Aadhaar for quick verification without revealing personal details.
Limited KYC
Service providers only receive necessary information, not your full Aadhaar details.
Aadhaar Paperless e-KYC
Instant paperless verification using masked Aadhaar for various services.
Uses of Masked Aadhaar Card
You can use Masked Aadhaar Card in the following situations:
Online Transactions
Use Masked Aadhaar for online shopping, ticket booking, or any online service requiring Aadhaar verification.
Online Verification
Always use Masked Aadhaar instead of regular Aadhaar for online service verification.
Authentication
Use Masked Aadhaar as valid proof where Aadhaar verification is required.
e-KYC Process
Use Masked Aadhaar for any KYC (Know Your Customer) verification like opening bank accounts, getting mobile SIM cards, or verifying identity with service providers.
Digital Platforms
Use Masked Aadhaar on mobile apps, e-commerce websites and other digital platforms to keep your details secure.
Sharing with Unverified Parties
Use Masked Aadhaar when you need to share your Aadhaar with entities or individuals you don't fully trust, such as hotels, shops, or online vendors.
Data Security
Use Masked Aadhaar to reduce the risk of Aadhaar details being leaked or misused in case of data breaches or cyber attacks.
Benefits of Masked Aadhaar Card
Compared to regular Aadhaar card, Masked Aadhaar provides several benefits:
Privacy Protection
Your original Aadhaar number is hidden, preventing misuse of your Aadhaar card.
Easy Access
Can be downloaded when needed, while regular Aadhaar card requires visiting an enrollment center.
Enhanced Confidentiality
Hides a significant part of your Aadhaar number, maintaining privacy of your personal information.
Prevention of Misuse & Fraud
Reduces possibility of identity theft, phishing attacks and fraudulent activities.
Secure Transactions
Allows identity verification for various services without revealing your full Aadhaar number.
Legal Validity
Legally recognized as valid proof of identity and address for most KYC purposes.
Convenience
Provides a convenient and secure way to share your identity proof without worrying about Aadhaar number misuse.
How to Download Masked Aadhaar Card
You can download Masked Aadhaar online from UIDAI's official website. Downloading Masked Aadhaar Card is a simple process. Follow the steps below:
- First, visit the official website: https://uidai.gov.in/
- The My Aadhaar homepage will open. Click on the "Get Aadhaar" option
- After clicking, you will see the "Download Aadhaar" option - click on it
-
A new page will open with three options:
- Aadhaar Number
- Enrollment ID Number
- Virtual ID Number
- Select the "Aadhaar Number" option and enter your Aadhaar card number and Captcha code details
- Then click on the "Send OTP" button
- You will be asked "Do you want a Masked Aadhaar?" - tick this option
- You will receive an OTP on your Aadhaar registered mobile number - enter this OTP and verify
- Then click on the "Download" option
- A successful verification confirmation message will appear on your screen and your Masked Aadhaar Card will be downloaded
- To open your Masked Aadhaar Card, go to the downloaded PDF file on your device
- When you open this PDF file, you will be asked for a password which you need to enter
- After entering the correct password, your Masked Aadhaar Card will be ready to view and use
Password Format: When you successfully download your Masked Aadhaar Card, you will get a password-protected PDF of the Aadhaar card in your downloads folder. To open your Aadhaar card, enter the first four letters of your name in CAPITAL letters or your birth year in YYYY format. For example: AAAA1994
Alternative Digital Methods
mAadhaar App
Official UIDAI mobile application to carry your Aadhaar on your phone with biometric locking feature.
Download AppDigiLocker
Government platform to store and access digital documents including Aadhaar securely.
Access DigiLockerBanking Apps
Many banking applications now support Aadhaar services including masked Aadhaar download.
Check Your Bank AppDigital Security Timeline
2009
Aadhaar project launched with basic enrollment and authentication
2012
e-Aadhaar introduced for digital access to Aadhaar details
2016
mAadhaar mobile app launched for smartphone access
2018
Virtual ID and Limited KYC introduced for enhanced privacy
2020
Masked Aadhaar officially launched for privacy protection
2022
Offline e-KYC and QR code verification enhanced
2023
AI-based security features and advanced biometric authentication
Security Tips for Digital Aadhaar Usage
Best Practices for Aadhaar Security
- Always use Masked Aadhaar for online verifications
- Never share your complete Aadhaar number on social media
- Use Virtual ID instead of Aadhaar number when possible
- Lock your biometrics when not required for authentication
- Regularly check Aadhaar authentication history
- Use official UIDAI channels only for Aadhaar services
- Enable two-factor authentication where available
- Keep your registered mobile number updated
Difference Between Masked Aadhaar and Regular Aadhaar Card
| Basic | Masked Aadhaar Card | Regular Aadhaar Card |
|---|---|---|
| Aadhaar Number Visibility | Only last 4 digits visible, first 8 digits hidden | All 12 digits visible |
| Use in Government Schemes | Not acceptable for government schemes | Accepted everywhere |
| Format | Available in e-Aadhaar format only | Available in both physical and e-Aadhaar format |
| Validity | As valid as regular Aadhaar card | Valid throughout India |
| Digital Features | Enhanced digital security features | Standard digital features |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How to get Masked Aadhaar Card?
A: You can download Masked Aadhaar Card through UIDAI website, mAadhaar app or DigiLocker.
Q: Can I order Masked Aadhaar PVC Card?
A: No, Masked Aadhaar Card is not available as PVC Card.
Q: Is Masked Aadhaar PVC Card mandatory?
A: Masked Aadhaar Card and PVC Aadhaar Card are different. Masked Aadhaar Card shows only last 4 digits, providing more security and privacy. While PVC Aadhaar Card is available in PVC format only, which can be ordered online.
Q: How to download Masked Aadhaar Card without OTP?
A: It is not possible to download Masked Aadhaar Card without OTP received on registered mobile number.
Q: Can Masked Aadhaar Card be used for KYC?
A: Yes, Masked Aadhaar Card can be used for all types of verification. It is just like a regular Aadhaar card.
Q: Where is Masked Aadhaar Card not accepted?
A: Masked Aadhaar Card is not accepted where government welfare schemes are provided through DBT. In all these cases, regular e-Aadhaar or normal Aadhaar card photocopy is required.
Q: Can I use Masked Aadhaar for rent agreement?
A: Yes, Masked Aadhaar Card is valid as proof for rent agreement.
Q: What is the password format for Masked Aadhaar Card?
A: The password to open Masked Aadhaar PDF file is the first 4 letters of your name in CAPITAL letters followed by your birth year in YYYY format. For example, if your name is Rahul and birth year is 1995, then password would be RAHU1995.
Q: Can Masked Aadhaar be used for hotel booking?
A: Yes, you can use Masked Aadhaar Card for hotel booking or reservation.