Aadhaar Virtual ID (VID) is a 16-digit temporary number linked to your Aadhaar card. This innovative feature allows you to use a VID instead of your actual Aadhaar number for authentication and e-KYC services. As a business owner or merchant, understanding VID can help you offer secure verification options to your customers while protecting their sensitive information.
What is Aadhaar Virtual ID
A virtual ID number can be used instead of an Aadhaar number. This temporary code is made up of 16 numbers that are produced in response to an Aadhaar number.
However, the virtual ID cannot be utilized to obtain the real Aadhaar card. Only one virtual ID is produced against an Aadhaar number at a time. It may be created an unlimited number of times by the user.
Features of the Aadhar VID
- The virtual ID is used to replace Aadhaar for authentication to address privacy concerns, but the Aadhaar card number cannot be retrieved from the virtual ID. When the user retrieves their Aadhaar card, the last generated Virtual ID is sent to their registered mobile number.
- Only one virtual ID can be generated at a time. When a new Virtual ID is issued, the old one is terminated out.
- Now you don’t have to provide your thumb impression or get our iris scanned or even share your Aadhaar number as VID is enough for this purpose.
- An individual can furnish his/ her Aadhaar details instead of the Virtual ID as it is not compulsory to generate Aadhar Virtual ID.
- It is not mandatory to create VIDs. A person can give his Aadhaar instead of the VID.
- All agencies are instructed to ensure Aadhaar cardholders to provide the 16-digit virtual ID instead of Aadhaar number within their application for authentication and eKYC services. The agencies are not authorised to store the Aadhaar details or any other virtual ID that is taken for authentication.
- The Aadhaar virtual ID (VID) is valid till the user generates a new one.
What Are the Ways to Generate an Aadhaar Virtual ID?
- Online: Visit the UIDAI website (https://uidai.gov.in/)
- mAadhaar App: Use the official mobile application
- SMS: Send a text message to a designated number
How to Generate Aadhaar Virtual ID Online?
Step 1: Go to the UIDAI website at http://uidai.gov.in/
Step 2: Click on “Virtual ID (VID) Generator” under Aadhaar Services.
Step 3: Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and the captcha, then click “Send OTP”.
Step 4: Input the OTP received on your registered mobile number then click “Generate”.
Step 5: You’ll see a message confirming your VID has been sent to your registered mobile.
Step 6: Check your mobile for an SMS containing your 16-digit VID and the last 4 digits of your Aadhaar.
How to Generate VID Via mAadhaar?
Step 1: Download the mAadhaar app from either the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Step 2: Open the app and register if you haven’t done so already. Log in using your Aadhaar number and other necessary details.
Step 3: Navigate to the home screen and select “Generate Virtual ID.”
Step 4: Enter your Aadhaar number and the 4-digit captcha code.
Step 5: Click on “Request OTP” to receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on your registered mobile number.
Step 6: Input the OTP you receive on your mobile device.
Step 7: Click on “Generate VID” to obtain your Virtual ID.
How to Get Aadhaar Virtual ID Through SMS?
Step 1: Start by opening the app you use to send text messages on your phone.
Step 2: In the new message, type “GVID” (just those four letters), then a space, and then the last four digits of your Aadhaar Number.
Example: If your Aadhaar Number is 1234-5678-9123, type: “GVID 9123”
Step 3: Send this text message to the number 1947.
Step 4: Check Your Messages: Wait for a reply. You’ll get a new text with your Virtual ID (VID).
FAQs
Why is Aadhaar Virtual ID Important?
The importance of Aadhaar Virtual ID lies in its ability to enhance privacy and security. Your Aadhaar number contains sensitive personal data, and using a VID reduces the risk of exposing this information during online transactions. For your business, this means you can verify customers’ identities without handling their actual Aadhaar numbers, minimising potential data breaches and building trust with your clientele.
When should you use an Aadhaar Virtual ID instead of an Aadhaar Number?
Aadhaar cardholders can provide their Aadhaar virtual ID to get your e-KYC done at both private and government organisations. People can use VID for the following services:
- Opening a new bank account
- Availing government subsidies
- Applying for tatkal passports
- Buying new insurance policies
