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Masked Aadhaar: Know How To Use Masked Aadhaar To Avoid Fraud and Download From UIDAI Portal
It’s important to keep your masked Aadhaar document secure and avoid sharing it with unauthorised individuals.
Masked Aadhaar Download: Aadhaar-based fraud has been increasing in recent years. Scammers often steal Aadhaar numbers to access financial benefits or services. These criminals use advanced methods to bypass security systems like OTPs, CVVs, and even bank details.
One common scam targets the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS). Fraudsters use fake silicon fingerprints and unauthorised biometric devices to copy Aadhaar-linked biometrics, stealing money from victims’ bank accounts.
To stay safe, financial institutions advise Aadhaar users to lock their biometrics and use masked Aadhaar whenever possible.
What Masked Aadhaar Card?
A masked Aadhaar is a version of your Aadhaar card designed to protect your privacy. It hides the first eight digits of your Aadhaar number, showing only the last four. Other details, like your name, photo, and QR code, remain visible.
Why Use a Masked Aadhaar?
- Protects your privacy: It hides your Aadhaar number to reduce the risk of fraud.
- Prevents misuse: Keeps your sensitive information secure.
- Widely accepted: Most organisations accept masked Aadhaar for identity verification.
- Convenient: You can share your masked Aadhaar instead of your full number for better security.
How to Use Masked Aadhaar
You can download your masked Aadhaar as a PDF from the official UIDAI website. Once downloaded, you can print and use it wherever Aadhaar is needed, ensuring your privacy is protected.
By using masked Aadhaar, you can confidently share your Aadhaar details without worrying about misuse.
Is Masked Aadhaar Valid Everywhere? Know How To Use Masked Aadhaar To Avoid Fraud and Download From myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in
Yes, a masked Aadhaar is valid for most purposes where Aadhaar is required as identity proof, except in certain cases where the full Aadhaar number may be necessary (e.g., bank KYC, government subsidies). Masked Aadhaar helps you safeguard your sensitive Aadhaar number while still providing identity verification.
For example, masked Aadhaar is accepted for identity proof in private transactions like booking a hotel, travel purposes, job verification, etc.
How to download a masked Aadhaar:
To obtain a masked Aadhaar, follow these steps:
- Visit the official UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in/.
- Under the “My Aadhaar” section, click on “Download Aadhaar”.
- You will be redirected to the Aadhaar download page.
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or 16-digit Virtual ID (VID), along with other required details such as your full name, postcode, and security code.
- In the “Select your preference” section, choose the “Masked Aadhaar” option.
- Select the option to receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on your registered mobile number.
- Enter the OTP to complete the verification process.
- You will then be able to download the masked Aadhaar in a password-protected PDF format.
It’s important to keep your masked Aadhaar document secure and avoid sharing it with unauthorised individuals.