Aadhaar Virtual ID - How to Generate Aadhaar Virtual ID?

As digital security is becoming increasingly important, safeguarding one's Aadhaar details has become a need for every individual. To cater to this need, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) introduced a security feature known as Aadhaar Virtual ID. 

In this article, we will learn:

• What is the Aadhaar Virtual ID
• How to generate it: 
  • Online
  • mAadhaar 
  • SMS
• Why we need Aadhaar Virtual ID
• Features and benefits of Aadhar Virtual ID

What is Aadhaar Virtual ID?

The Aadhaar virtual ID, also known as VID, is a 16-digit temporary and revocable number issued to an Aadhaar number. UIDAI introduced the VID as a security feature, which enables Aadhaar holders to give identity proof without disclosing their Aadhaar number. 

Since Aadhaar numbers are commonly linked to sensitive information, such as bank accounts, mobile numbers, demat accounts, and other financial documents, the VID helps maintain privacy and security during transactions. It can be used for any Aadhaar authentication and verification purpose, including availing government subsidies, financial transactions, completing e-KYC, and more.

As an Aadhaar holder, you can generate a virtual ID against your Aadhaar number or UID. However, you can generate a VID as many times as you want; it does not carry any limitations. It allows organizations to authenticate your basic details, including name, address, photograph and biometric information, without the risk of disclosing your UID.

How to Generate Aadhaar Virtual ID Online?

Here are the steps guiding you to quickly generate a 16-digit Aadhaar Virtual ID number, valid for a limited period, by visiting the UIDAI website:

Step 1: Visit the official website of myAadhaar.

Step 2: Click on the ‘Virtual ID (VID) Generator’ option.

Step 3: Select ‘Generate VID’ and enter your Aadhaar number, and a captcha code and click on ‘Send OTP’. 

Step 4: An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP received and click on ‘Verify and Proceed’. The 16-digit virtual ID will be displayed on the screen and also sent to you on your registered mobile number.

How to Generate Aadhaar Virtual ID via mAadhaar?

Follow the steps listed below to generate your Aadhaar virtual ID number using the mAadhaar app:

Step 1: Access the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and download the mAadhaar app.

Step 2: Open the mAadhaar app. Register your mobile number on the app.

Step 3: On the home screen, find and select the ‘Generate Virtual ID’ option.

Step 4: Next, enter your Aadhaar number, captcha code and click on ‘Request OTP’.

Step 5: Enter the OTP and tap ‘Generate Virtual ID’ to complete the process and obtain your Virtual ID.

How to Get Aadhaar Virtual ID via SMS?

Here is the step-by-step guide to generating an Aadhaar virtual ID using text SMS from your mobile phone:

Step 1: Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.

Step 2: Start a new message and type “GVID”, followed by a space and the last four digits of your Aadhaar number. If your Aadhaar number is 2256-7734-4311, type: “GVID 4311”.

Step 3: Then, simply send this message to the number 1947.

You will soon receive a text with your newly generated Virtual ID (VID).

Why Do We Need Aadhar Virtual ID?

An Aadhaar virtual ID facility is essential nowadays. Numerous instances of data leakage have led to various types of fraudulent activities and malpractices. To address these concerns, UIDAI has introduced the concept of a virtual ID. 

When users provide their Aadhaar virtual IDs instead of their Aadhaar number or UID, agencies are unable to retrieve the applicant’s Aadhaar number while the authentication process goes on as usual. This protects the Aadhaar cardholders’ privacy and security and protects them from fraud and telemarketers. 

You can generate a VID to authenticate your identity for services. Once authentication is complete, you can regenerate a new VID after a day. Generating a new VID after a day will deactivate the previous VID. This means that even if an agency retains your previous VID, it becomes invalid after a day, safeguarding your sensitive personal information. 

Features & Benefits of Aadhar Virtual ID

Let us have a closer look at some of the important features and benefits of using Aadhaar Virtual ID:

• The Aadhaar virtual ID adds an additional layer of protection, making it more secure. It prevents authentication agencies from accessing your actual Aadhaar number, as they only receive a UID token.
• It serves as an important feature that helps safeguard your Aadhaar data, as it is nearly impossible to derive the Aadhaar number from a given VID.
• It offers controlled access and allows the sharing of only some specific information, preventing misuse of important details.
• These virtual IDs can be easily revoked and regenerated, minimising the risk of duplication to a larger extent.
• There are no limitations on the number of Aadhaar virtual IDs you can generate daily.
• Only a single virtual ID can be issued against an Aadhaar card at a time, ensuring security.
• You can also retrieve your virtual ID; if you have forgotten a recently generated VID, you can retrieve it using the last 4 digits of your Aadhaar number and your registered mobile number.

The Aadhaar virtual ID is a simple yet vital security feature for each and every Aadhaar holder. It allows an additional layer of security that helps protect the sensitive information linked to your Aadhaar number. 

Whether for online transactions, financial services, or any other authentication need, the Aadhaar Virtual ID effectively keeps personal data secure. Generating your Aadhaar VID is quick and easy, and you can create a new VID as many times as you wish, adding further protection to your identity.