Masked Aadhaar

In India, Aadhaar has become an essential document for almost everything, from linking bank accounts to availing government benefits. However, concerns about privacy and data misuse have also risen in recent years. To address these concerns, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) introduced the concept of Masked Aadhaar.

A masked aadhaar card enables users to conceal their 12-digit unique identification number. In this type of aadhaar card, only the last four numbers are visible, while the rest are crossed out. The disguised Aadhar card or UIDAI-masked Aadhar also displays demographic information, a picture, and the QR code. 

This page covers information on how to download a masked aadhaar card, its features and benefits.

Features of Masked Aadhaar Card

Here are some important features of a masked aadhar card:

• Data Privacy: Users can use this version of the aadhaar card for e-KYC in areas where disclosing Aadhaar numbers is not required. 
• Legally Valid: A Masked Aadhar is as legitimate as any other official identification document. It is recognised as a valid proof of identity for various purposes, as outlined by UIDAI regulations.
• Easily Accessible: Individuals with a valid Aadhaar number can download a disguised Aadhaar from the UIDAI website. 
• Password Protected: Downloaded e-Aadhaar PDFs are password-protected. The masked aadhaar password combines the first four letters of your name (as per Aadhaar) and your year of birth, adding an extra layer of security.

How to Get Masked Aadhaar Card?

The following are the methods to download masked Aadhaar:

• Step 1: Navigate to the official website of UIDAI.
• Step 2: Click ‘Download Aadhaar‘ under ‘My Aadhaar.’
• Step 3: Under the ‘I Have’ section, choose Aadhaar number, Virtual ID, or Enrolment ID.
• Step 4: Fill in the blank columns with all the necessary information. Choose ‘Request OTP’ and then click ‘I Agree.’ 
• (Note: If the TOTP functionality is selected for verification, the TOTP must be typed in the area given to validate the request. The TOTP is shown on the mAadhaar app.)
• Step 5: A one-time password will be issued to the registered cellphone number of the Aadhaar cardholder. The user can download a masked Aadhaar after entering this OTP by clicking on the ‘Download Aadhaar’ option after entering this OTP.

Format of Masked Aadhaar Password

The downloaded Masked Aadhaar card copy is password-secured. To access the disguised Aadhaar copy, one needs to input the password. This is an 8-digit password and has the following format:

• The password consists of the first four letters of the name (as per the aadhaar card) and the birth year of the individual. 

For example:

• If the name is Rajesh Sharma and the year of birth is 1989, the password is RAJE1989.
• If the name is J. Rahul and the year of birth is 1991, the password is J.RAH1991.

Difference Between Masked Aadhaar and Regular Aadhaar

Although the UIDAI masked aadhaar card is similar to the regular aadhar card, here are some differences that must be noted:

Benefits of Masked Aadhaar

Here are some of the major benefits of using a masked aadhar:

• Enhanced Security: Reduces the risk of your entire Aadhaar number being misused or leaked.
• Privacy Control: Gives you more control over your personal information when verifying your identity.
• Reduced Fraud Risk: It makes it harder for fraudsters to create fake Aadhaar numbers or impersonate you.
• Convenience and Portability: Eliminates the need to carry your physical Aadhaar card.