Masked Aadhaar is a downloadable version of your e-Aadhaar where the first eight digits of your Aadhaar number are masked as “xxxx-xxxx.” This means only the last four digits are visible, along with other details like your name, address, and photo. This helps protect your Aadhaar number from being misused while still allowing you to use it for verification purposes where required.
Where can I use my masked Aadhar card?
Masked Aadhaar is accepted wherever Aadhaar is required as a form of identification, such as for opening a bank account, applying for a loan, providing identity proof for vehicle or property purchases, and more. A complete Aadhaar number is necessary for government benefits and schemes.
Masked Aadhaar can be used for unlicensed establishments such as pubs, cinema halls, and hotels as they are not authorized to collect or store your Aadhaar details. In situations involving such establishments, it is advisable to use Masked Aadhaar for safety.
Steps to Download Masked Aadhaar
Here are the steps to download Masked Aadhaar online:
Step 1: Visit the official UIDAI website and Click on Login.
Step 2: Enter the Aadhaar number, Captcha, and click on Login With OTP.
Step 3: Enter the OTP received on the Aadhaar registered mobile number and click on Login.
Step 4: Click on Download Aadhaar.
Step 5: Click on “Do you want a masked Aadhaar?”
Step 6: Click on Download.
Step 7: Open the downloaded file and enter the first four letters of your name in CAPITAL letters and year of birth in YYYY format.
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Difference Between Masked Aadhaar & Normal Aadhaar
Masked Aadhaar Card and Normal Aadhaar Card is issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI and differ in terms of how the Aadhaar number is displayed. The table below shows the difference between both:
| Feature | Masked Aadhaar | Normal Aadhaar |
|---|---|---|
| Aadhaar number visibility | Only the last 4 digits are visible | The full Aadhaar number is visible |
| Mandatory to use | Optional to use | Mandatory in some situations |
| Ideal for | Situations where full Aadhaar disclosure is not mandatory | All Aadhaar-related purposes |
| Privacy risk | Lower | Higher |
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Important Points to Note on Masked Aadhaar
Here are some important points to note about Masked Aadhaar:
- Masked Aadhaar is not mandatory in all situations.
- You can still choose to share your full Aadhaar number if required.
- Masked Aadhaar is a valid proof of identity.
- Download and store your masked Aadhaar on a secure device.
- Avoid sharing your masked Aadhaar with anyone.
- Be cautious of phishing attempts that may ask you to share your complete Aadhaar number.
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