The Aadhaar card has become an essential document for every Indian, serving as proof of identity and a gateway to access numerous government schemes and services. From school admissions to job applications, Aadhaar is ubiquitous. However, its widespread use also puts it at risk of misuse. Your Aadhaar card contains critical personal and biometric information that, if misused, could compromise your security and financial well-being.
Why Sharing Your Original Aadhaar Card Can Be Risky
When you book a hotel room, check in at an airport, or even register at clubs, you may often be asked for your Aadhaar card as proof of identity. While this seems harmless, handing over the original Aadhaar card to unknown entities can expose you to potential fraud.
Details on the Aadhaar card, including your name, date of birth, and Aadhaar number, can be exploited to access sensitive information, including your bank details. This makes it imperative to avoid sharing your original Aadhaar card unnecessarily.
The Safer Alternative: Masked Aadhaar Card
To safeguard your personal information, the Masked Aadhaar Card is a reliable alternative. Recognized by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the masked Aadhaar conceals the first eight digits of your Aadhaar number, displaying only the last four digits. This makes it a secure option for verification purposes, reducing the risk of fraud and online scams.
How to Download a Masked Aadhaar Card
Follow these steps to download a masked Aadhaar card and protect your identity:
- Visit the Official UIDAI Website
Go to UIDAI’s official website. - Navigate to ‘My Aadhaar’
Click on the “My Aadhaar” tab on the homepage. - Enter Your Aadhaar Number
Fill in your 12-digit Aadhaar number and the captcha code displayed. - Authenticate with OTP
An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP to complete the verification process. - Choose the Masked Aadhaar Option
After verification, you’ll see an option to download your Aadhaar card. Check the box for “Masked Aadhaar.” - Download the Masked Aadhaar Card
Click the download button, and your masked Aadhaar card will be saved to your device. -
Aadhaar card
Benefits of Using a Masked Aadhaar Card
- Enhanced Security: Reduces the risk of identity theft and online fraud.
- Widely Accepted: Recognized as valid ID proof across hotels, airports, and other establishments.
- Privacy Protection: Conceals sensitive information, safeguarding your personal data.
